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AfCFTA Seeks Investment Mobilization for Green Industrial Development

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AfCFTA Seeks Investment Mobilization for Green Industrial Development

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat convened a high-level dinner dialogue on the margins of the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, seeking to accelerate green industrial growth by linking regional markets with investment capital.

The event, held under the Africa Green Industrial Initiative (AGII) High-Level Dinner Dialogue format, brought together policymakers and development partners to address a central challenge confronting Africa’s climate and industrial agenda: translating commitments into investable execution.

AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene stated that Africa’s constraints are increasingly defined not by shortage of opportunity, but by lack of prepared, bankable project pipelines at scale. He noted the critical role of Development Finance Institutions and international partners in closing the gap between climate ambitions and tangible industrial outcomes.

The dialogue operated under the theme From Frameworks to Execution: Mobilising Regional Markets and Investment for Green Industrial Growth, focusing on accelerating project preparation, mobilizing blended finance, and strengthening coordination to translate climate ambition into industrial competitiveness, jobs, and resilient growth.

The 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government took place on Friday and Saturday, February 14 and 15, 2026, under the theme Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.

African leaders elected Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye as rotating AU chairperson for 2026, succeeding Angola President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. Ndayishimiye emphasized commitment to strengthening Africa’s global positioning toward building a fairer world amid security challenges, rising unilateralism, growing economic tensions, and climate change effects.

Outgoing AU Chairperson Lourenço highlighted progress achieved during 2025, including advancing Agenda 2063, mobilizing investment for infrastructure, strengthening continental integration through AfCFTA, and enhancing institutional efficiency. He underscored the imperative to silence guns across Africa for achieving a better continental future.

Multiple high-level business engagements occurred on summit margins. The AU Commission hosted a High-Level Africa Private Sector Forum on Thursday, February 13, themed The Role of the Private Sector in Realizing Africa’s 2063 Development Agenda. The forum aligned capital, policy, and political will around industrialization priorities.

Brand South Africa convened a Business Engagement and Panel Discussion on February 13 under the theme Fostering Trade, Investment, Integration and Infrastructure Development through AfCFTA. The event gathered policymakers, development finance institutions, investors, and business leaders to reinforce Africa’s position as an integrated, investment-ready market.

Discussions explored infrastructure financing challenges, digital infrastructure requirements for cross-border transactions, and strategies to position Africa as a viable trade partner. Experts emphasized blended finance, local currency lending, guarantees, and coordination between development finance institutions and commercial banks to build trade corridors and energy networks.

The progressive implementation of AfCFTA is presented as a major lever to boost intra-African trade, attract investments, and support industrialization. Africa’s population is projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, presenting opportunities through its youthful workforce, growing consumer market, and vast natural resources.

However, the continent continues exporting up to 90 percent of raw materials without value addition, limiting industrial development and wealth creation. The various summit engagements aimed to address these structural gaps by promoting investments capable of building productive capacity and strengthening regional value chains.

Key sectors identified for private-sector expansion include mineral value addition, agro-processing, textiles and garments, renewable energy, green industry, and local pharmaceutical manufacturing to enhance health security. Digital transformation features throughout deliberations as an essential enabler of inclusive growth and regional integration.

Indian Police Arrest Nigerian Over Renewed MDMA Trafficking Activities

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Indian Police Arrest Nigerian Over Renewed MDMA Trafficking Activities

Mangaluru City Police in India arrested a 39-year-old Nigerian national on suspicion of resuming methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) distribution operations after securing bail in an earlier narcotics case, authorities announced on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Peter Ikedi Belonwu faces accusations of violating bail conditions and re-establishing a drug distribution network supplying dealers and students in Mangaluru and neighbouring Kasaragod district. Police reports indicate he procured MDMA from Bengaluru and coordinated deliveries across Karnataka state.

The Central Crime Branch (CCB) launched a targeted operation following intelligence inputs regarding his renewed involvement in narcotics trafficking. Officers seized a substantial quantity of MDMA along with other incriminating materials at the time of arrest. Investigators revealed that Belonwu frequently shifted locations and used multiple mobile phone numbers to evade surveillance.

Belonwu has a documented history of drug trafficking arrests. Police arrested him on October 7, 2024, in Bengaluru’s Dommasandra area, seizing 6.248 kilogrammes of MDMA valued at approximately 6 crore rupees. The raid also recovered three mobile phones, a digital weighing scale, 35 automated teller machine cards, 17 inactive subscriber identity module cards, and 10 bank account passbooks.

Prior to the October 2024 arrest, Bengaluru police had detained Belonwu in 2023 in connection with separate drug trafficking investigations registered at Vidyaranyapura police station. Despite these previous arrests and judicial custody, authorities say he continued illegal operations after obtaining bail.

The October 2024 case began when Mangaluru East Police arrested Haider Ali, aged 51, on September 29, 2024, at a lodge near Pumpwell with 15 grammes of MDMA. Investigation into his supply chain led officers to Belonwu, marking the start of a broader operation that eventually exposed connections to international smuggling networks.

Further investigation revealed links between Belonwu and two South African women arrested on March 14, 2025, in Bengaluru with 37.870 kilogrammes of MDMA valued at 75 crore rupees. The women had been transporting drugs via air routes from Delhi to Bengaluru for 18 months.

Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal stated that the March 2025 seizure represented the largest drug bust in Karnataka State Police history. During interrogation, Belonwu reportedly identified the South African women as his suppliers.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commended police efforts, emphasizing the government’s determination to uproot drug networks across the state. Deputy Commissioner of Police K Ravishankar noted that investigations continue to determine smuggling sources and whether suspects operated within a more extensive international network.

Officials emphasized that sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts proved critical to tracking movements. The arrest forms part of intensified enforcement measures to curb drug circulation, particularly among youth populations, with authorities reiterating commitment to strict action against repeat offenders.

Hearts of Oak End Kotoko Home Dominance with Victory

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Hearts of Oak End Kotoko Home Dominance with Victory

Accra Hearts of Oak secured a 1-0 victory over Asante Kotoko at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday, February 15, 2026, ending their rivals’ unbeaten home league run and climbing to third position in the Ghana Premier League (GPL) standings despite finishing with ten men.

Defender Baba Adamu scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute, rising highest to meet Martin Karikari’s dangerous set piece and directing the ball beyond Mohamed Camara to silence the packed stadium. The goal proved sufficient as Hearts withstood sustained pressure throughout the match.

Hearts’ task became significantly more challenging when Emmanuel Amankwah received a red card, reducing the Phobians to ten men and forcing tactical adjustments from coach Mas-ud Didi Dramani. The numerical disadvantage shifted momentum toward Kotoko, but Hearts maintained defensive discipline to preserve their advantage.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare delivered an authoritative performance that earned him man of the match honours. The Black Stars first-choice goalkeeper commanded aerial balls confidently, organized his defence with calm instructions, and provided crucial interventions when required. His assured display anchored Hearts’ resilient defensive effort.

Kotoko created opportunities but struggled to convert chances into goals. Patrick Asiedu unleashed a fierce effort from a set piece that Asare parried away, while the Porcupine Warriors pushed numbers forward after gaining numerical superiority. Hearts nearly doubled their lead late when Raphael Amponsah raced through on a pass from Frank Duku, but Camara redeemed himself with a sharp stop.

The victory represents Hearts’ first GPL triumph in Kumasi since the 2020-2021 season, breaking Kotoko’s five-match unbeaten home streak against the Phobians. Kotoko had not lost to Hearts in any competition since March 2023, making the result particularly significant for the visitors.

Hearts climbed to third position with 39 points from 22 matches, five points behind league leaders Medeama Sporting Club (SC). Kotoko remained fifth with 35 points, now four points behind Hearts and eight points from the top.

The match took place amid challenging circumstances for both clubs. Kotoko entered following elimination from the MTN FA Cup on Sunday, February 8, after a 4-2 penalty shootout loss to Aduana FC, which prompted head coach Abdul Karim Zito’s resignation on Monday, February 9. Assistant coaches Prince Yaw Owusu and Hamza Obeng assumed interim control.

Hearts arrived riding a four-match unbeaten run built on defensive organization, having conceded only seven goals in 21 matches prior to this fixture. The Phobians secured their FA Cup quarter-final berth while Kotoko suffered early elimination, creating contrasting atmospheres within the two camps.

Referee Daniel Laryea, Ghana’s most accomplished official who recently became the first Ghanaian referee in 54 years to officiate an Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, controlled the encounter assisted by Paul Atimaka and Seth Abletor.

A high-profile delegation from Manhyia Palace, led by Chief of Staff Kofi Badu, Offinsomanhene Nana Dwamena Akenten II, and Bantamahene Baffour Owusu Amankwatia VI, visited the Kotoko squad on Thursday to boost morale. The traditional leaders monitored training at Adako Jachie, interacting with the technical team and players while urging discipline, unity, and confidence.

Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly Chief Executive Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi also visited Kotoko’s training grounds on Thursday, promising financial rewards for a convincing victory. Despite the motivational support, Kotoko could not overcome Hearts’ determined defensive performance.

The 120th GPL meeting between the historic rivals attracted thousands of fans to the Baba Yara Stadium. The match was broadcast live on TV3, Onua TV, and Max TV, reaching viewers across Ghana.

The result significantly impacts the GPL title race, with Medeama maintaining their lead while Hearts strengthened their position in continental qualification contention. Kotoko face the challenge of regrouping under interim management while attempting to salvage their season.

Bawumia Calls for Party Unity and Mutual Forgiveness

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Bawumia Calls for Party Unity and Mutual Forgiveness

New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia urged party members to forgive one another for harmful statements made during the presidential primaries campaign, emphasizing that reconciliation remains essential as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections.

Speaking at a National Thanksgiving Service held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) auditorium on Sunday, February 15, 2026, Bawumia described the internal contest as peaceful and incident-free despite the intensity of the campaign period. He acknowledged that political contests can create lasting wounds beneath the surface.

The former vice president appealed directly to party faithful to repair relationships damaged during the campaign. He stated that members should forgive unpalatable statements made against one another during the election cycle, emphasizing patience, truth, love, and trust in God rather than retaliation when falsely accused.

Bawumia noted that some members have already initiated efforts to reconnect, stating that while the healing process remains incomplete, genuine reconciliation efforts have begun. He commended party members for steps taken toward rebuilding unity.

The thanksgiving service represented the second major religious observance following Bawumia’s victory in the January 31, 2026 presidential primaries. An Islamic thanksgiving prayer service was held at the National Mosque on Friday, February 13, under the theme Offer to God a Sacrifice of Thanksgiving drawn from Psalm 50:14.

Bawumia secured 110,643 votes representing 56.48 percent of valid ballots cast, defeating four challengers including Kennedy Agyapong who received 46,554 votes or 23.76 percent, Bryan Acheampong with 36,303 votes representing 18.53 percent, Yaw Osei Adutwum who secured 1,999 votes, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong who obtained 402 votes.

At the Islamic service, Bawumia cautioned that victory in 2028 would not come automatically, emphasizing that success must be earned through discipline, sacrifice, and grassroots mobilization constituency by constituency. He announced plans for nationwide engagement in coming weeks to acknowledge member contributions and reorganize party structures.

Former Suame Member of Parliament Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu confirmed that Bawumia personally spearheads reconciliation efforts, acknowledging tensions exist in some constituencies. He stated that without a united party, the NPP cannot win the next election, noting that support from floating voters beyond the traditional base remains essential.

Unity walks occurred in Tamale on Saturday, February 14, with participants wearing shirts featuring images of all primary candidates. All four defeated aspirants publicly accepted results and pledged support for Bawumia’s candidacy.

Beyond internal matters, Bawumia appealed to government to prioritize national healing over political retribution. He argued that Ghanaians remain under significant economic pressure, stating the moment calls for lowering political temperatures.

The NPP lost the 2024 presidential election to John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress, who secured approximately 56 percent of votes while Bawumia received roughly 41 percent. The party holds minority status in parliament with 88 seats compared to 183 for the National Democratic Congress.

Jasikan Police Reject Bribe After Seizing Narcotics Concealed in Truck

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Jasikan Police Reject Bribe After Seizing Narcotics Concealed in Truck

Jasikan District police arrested two suspects and seized 1,482 compressed parcels of substances suspected to be cannabis after intercepting a cargo truck with a hidden compartment on Sunday, February 15, 2026, rejecting an 80,000 cedis bribe offered during the operation.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Gideon Sena Zowonu led the operation alongside Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mathew Avemee and five additional officers following intelligence received on Thursday, February 13, that indicated a cargo truck would travel from Hohoe through the Likpe and Jasikan enclave toward Nkwanta between February 13 and 16.

Police surveillance teams spotted and stopped a Mercedes Benz cargo truck with registration number GS 3831-09 at approximately 2:00 pm at Bodada. The vehicle was driven by Amrado Justice Nelson, aged 50, with passenger Onaneye Yussif, aged 25, on board.

An initial inspection revealed an apparently empty cargo area, however, detailed examination uncovered a newly constructed inner compartment. Officers transported the vehicle to Jasikan Police Station and engaged an auto welder to access the concealed section.

The welder cut open the hidden compartment in the presence of both suspects and officers, revealing 1,482 compressed parcels of substances suspected to be cannabis hidden inside. Police reported that during the process, the driver allegedly offered 80,000 cedis to officers in exchange for release, which was declined.

The operation team included Chief Inspector Dennis Felli, Inspector Nobel Adjabeng Quarcoo, Detective Inspector Charles Doe Tetteh, General Lance Corporal Anthony Kyei Frimpong, General Lance Corporal Stephen Konlan Biiche, and General Constable Emmanuel Gbortse.

Both suspects remain detained while the truck has been impounded. The retrieved parcels have been retained as exhibits pending further investigations and laboratory analysis to confirm the substance composition.

The Oti Regional Police Command has conducted multiple narcotics interdiction operations during February 2026. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Alex Acquah stated that the command remains committed to sustained operations aimed at eliminating illegal weapons and narcotics. He commended officers involved and appealed to the public to continue providing timely information.

Ghana faces persistent challenges with cannabis trafficking despite legal prohibitions. The Criminal Offences Act of 1960 classifies cannabis possession and trafficking as criminal offenses carrying imprisonment ranging from five to 15 years for possession and minimum 10-year sentences for trafficking.

Bank of Ghana Engages 24-Hour Economy Team on Policy Coordination

Roger A. Agana
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Bank of Ghana Engages 24-Hour Economy Team on Policy Coordination

Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor Johnson Asiama hosted the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat on Thursday, February 13, 2026, for strategic discussions focused on aligning monetary policy instruments with the government’s flagship economic transformation programme.

The engagement at the central bank’s headquarters explored potential mechanisms to expand financing for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), strategies to stabilize food prices, approaches to managing foreign exchange risks, and opportunities to advance financial innovation across the economy.

Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy Programme Augustus Goosie Tanoh expressed appreciation to the bank for engaging its leadership and technical teams. He stated that Ghana’s immediate priority involves building a resilient economy anchored on macroeconomic stability, commending the BoG for providing stability required to create platforms for growth and increased economic activity.

Tanoh described the 24-hour economy initiative as a targeted micro-level response to macroeconomic stabilization achieved, citing sustained treasury bill performance and declining inflation as evidence of a strengthening foundation for long-term growth. Recent economic indicators show inflation declined to 21.5 percent in January 2026 from 23.8 percent in December 2025.

A major focus involved the proposed establishment of a Food Security and Price Stabilisation Fund expected to moderate commodity price volatility, reduce food inflation, and enhance national food security while complementing existing monetary policy measures.

Discussions explored practical collaboration areas between the Secretariat, commercial banks, and the central bank. Proposals included developing a 24H+ credit policy and enterprise financing framework, coordinated appraisal of credit requests, syndicated and direct lending opportunities, and balance sheet support for eligible 24-hour enterprises subject to due diligence.

Additional areas covered recognition of credit insurance schemes to strengthen collateral frameworks, regulatory considerations for 24-hour loan portfolios, foreign exchange hedging instruments to support SME lending at reasonable rates, and digital platforms to expand access to trade and finance.

Governor Asiama noted that while the bank’s core mandate remains anchored on maintaining price stability and ensuring financial system soundness, the engagement created room to assess how existing instruments within its legal and policy frameworks could be deployed to complement broader national development objectives.

He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to structured dialogue, data-driven decision-making, and institutional independence as it collaborates with stakeholders to support Ghana’s economic transformation agenda.

The deliberations are expected to result in key strategic regulatory policy initiatives enhancing the financial services infrastructure under which Ghanaian companies are expected to thrive.

The 24-Hour Economy & Accelerated Export Development Programme, known as 24H+, represents a national development initiative aimed at repositioning Ghana as a competitive, export-driven economy. The programme promotes sustained economic activity to unlock productivity, enhance value addition, and support inclusive long-term growth.

President John Dramani Mahama officially launched the programme on July 2, 2025, targeting creation of at least 1.7 million jobs over four years while requiring over 4 billion United States dollars in investments.

The programme operates through eight sub-programmes including Grow24 for agriculture, Make24 for manufacturing, Build24 for infrastructure, Connect24 for logistics, Fund24 for financing, Show24 for creative economy and tourism, Aspire24 for human capital development, and Go24 for governance.

Bog - Hr Meeting
Bog – Hr Meeting

The Ghana Association of Banks pledged support for the initiative during a Banking Sector Roundtable organized by the Secretariat in September 2025. Chief Executive Officer John Awuah emphasized that the programme’s success is intrinsically linked to the country’s economic performance and banking sector prosperity.

Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga Central Attah Issah stated on Wednesday, February 11, that the government deliberately took time to refine the policy through extensive consultations to avoid over-politicization of economic policies.

President Mahama swore in and inaugurated the Presidential Advisory Group on the Economy (PAGE) on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. The group will support design and implementation of key national initiatives including the 24-hour economy, export development programmes, and productivity-enhancing reforms.

A Computable General Equilibrium analysis published in July 2024 projected that under the 24-hour economy policy, Ghana’s real Gross Domestic Product growth over ten years would be 31.71 percent higher than under a business-as-usual scenario, with the policy generating over 3 million jobs within five years of implementation.

Walewale MP Describes Bawumia as NPP’s Strongest 2028 Candidate

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Walewale MP Describes Bawumia as NPP’s Strongest 2028 Candidate

Walewale Member of Parliament Mahama Tiah Abdul-Kabiru has endorsed former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia as the strongest candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general elections, citing experience and policy depth as decisive advantages.

Speaking to MyNewsGh at a thanksgiving service held days after Bawumia secured the NPP flagbearer position, Abdul-Kabiru stated that the former vice president possesses superior qualifications compared to potential competitors. Bawumia won the party’s presidential primaries on January 31, 2026, securing 110,643 votes, representing 56.48 percent of valid ballots cast.

The Walewale legislator emphasized that leadership extends beyond campaign rhetoric, arguing that Bawumia’s extensive public service record positions him advantageously for the forthcoming electoral contest. Abdul-Kabiru warned that underestimating Bawumia’s electoral viability represents a strategic miscalculation.

Bawumia defeated four challengers including Kennedy Agyapong, who received 46,554 votes or 23.76 percent, Bryan Acheampong with 36,303 votes representing 18.53 percent, Yaw Osei Adutwum who secured 1,999 votes at 1.02 percent, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong who obtained 402 votes for 0.21 percent. The Electoral Commission declared results following voting at 333 centres nationwide, with 196,462 total ballots cast including 561 rejected votes.

Abdul-Kabiru, a political protégé of Bawumia, holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Hiroshima University in Japan and represents Walewale constituency in the North East Region.

Bawumia addressed a National Thanksgiving Service at the National Mosque on Friday, February 13, 2026, calling for party unity and cautioning that victory in 2028 requires sustained grassroots mobilization. He urged party members to prioritize national healing over personal ambition while warning the current government against political retribution.

The former vice president announced plans for nationwide engagement over coming weeks to acknowledge member contributions and reorganize policy structures ahead of the 2028 campaign. He emphasized that the internal contest concluded peacefully, describing it as evidence of the NPP’s maturity as a democratic institution.

All four defeated aspirants publicly accepted results and pledged support for Bawumia’s candidacy. Kennedy Agyapong, Bryan Acheampong, Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong issued separate statements committing to unified party efforts toward recapturing political power in 2028.

The NPP has initiated reconciliation processes across constituencies to address internal divisions following the competitive primary election. Former Suame Member of Parliament Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu confirmed that Bawumia personally spearheads efforts to reunite party factions.

Unity walks have occurred in multiple regions including Tamale, where participants wore shirts featuring images of all aspirants to symbolize collective commitment.

The NPP lost the 2024 presidential election to John Dramani Mahama, who secured approximately 56 percent of votes while Bawumia received roughly 41 percent. Party strategists indicate rebuilding requires addressing grassroots demobilization. The NPP holds minority status with 88 parliamentary seats compared to the NDC’s 183 seats.

Opposition Leader Demands Immediate Payment for Cocoa Farmers

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Opposition Leader Demands Immediate Payment for Cocoa Farmers

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has called on government to immediately settle outstanding payments owed to cocoa farmers, stating that producers prioritize receiving funds over policy explanations following recent price adjustments in the sector.

Speaking at a New Patriotic Party (NPP) thanksgiving service on Sunday, February 15, 2026, Afenyo-Markin criticized government reforms that reduced the producer price for the remainder of the 2025-2026 crop season, warning that the adjustment has deepened financial strain on farmers already experiencing months-long payment delays.

Government announced on Thursday, February 12, that the producer price had been adjusted to 41,392 cedis per metric tonne, equivalent to 2,587 cedis per 64-kilogramme bag, representing 90 percent of the achieved free-on-board price of 4,200 United States dollars per tonne. Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson stated the measure was designed to cushion farmers against falling global cocoa prices.

Afenyo-Markin, who represents Effutu constituency in parliament, argued that the adjustment worsened conditions rather than providing relief. Farmers previously received 3,625 cedis per bag under rates established in October 2025, meaning the new price represents a reduction of 1,038 cedis per bag.

The opposition leader emphasized that farmers want immediate payment rather than policy discussions, warning that parliament would press the matter in coming days. He stated that every cocoa farmer faces significant financial losses under the revised pricing structure.

Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Chief Executive Randy Abbey acknowledged on Friday, February 6, that although COCOBOD has sold over 530,000 tonnes of cocoa for the current season, approximately 50,000 tonnes remain unsold with farmers. He revealed that traditional syndicated funding models had failed, necessitating adoption of hybrid funding approaches to prevent further disruptions.

Payment delays have created severe hardship across cocoa-growing communities. Reuters reported on February 12 that farmers who delivered beans months earlier remain unpaid, forcing some to reduce daily meals. A cocoa purchasing clerk with over 20 years experience described the situation as unprecedented, revealing that farmers who supplied cocoa from November 2025 continuously demand payment for approximately 250 bags still outstanding.

President John Dramani Mahama convened an emergency Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, February 11, to address mounting challenges confronting the sector, including prolonged payment delays, liquidity constraints at COCOBOD, and warnings of potential industry collapse.

The government attributed the price reduction to a sharp decline in global cocoa prices, which halved over the previous year to approximately 4,000 dollars per metric tonne. Ghana’s farmgate price of 58,000 cedis per tonne, equivalent to nearly 5,300 dollars, had depressed demand from international traders, leaving farmers unpaid.

The 2025-2026 season commenced in August 2025 with a producer price of 51,660 cedis per tonne, calculated at 70 percent of a gross free-on-board price of 7,200 dollars per tonne. Following Cote d’Ivoire’s announcement of higher producer prices in October 2025 and exchange rate movements, Ghana revised its farmgate price upward to 58,000 cedis per tonne.

Finance Minister Forson explained that the current adjustment became necessary to reflect world market realities, ensure immediate liquidity injection for expedited farmer payments, and guarantee sector sustainability. He confirmed that despite the reduction, government maintained a high producer share of export earnings at 90 percent of achieved gross free-on-board prices.

The Ghana Cocoa Farmers Alliance of Africa released a statement on February 13 commending government for exploring local solutions rather than seeking International Monetary Fund intervention, as suggested by the parliamentary minority. The alliance described minority calls for external assistance as unacceptable.

Ghana ranks as the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, with the sector supporting hundreds of thousands of rural households while providing critical foreign exchange earnings. The country currently processes between 30 and 40 percent of cocoa beans locally, with government targeting at least 50 percent local processing during the 2026-2027 crop season through revival of state-owned processing company Cocoa Processing Company.

Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) have experienced operational strain due to financing disruptions, with some scaling back activities or exiting the market entirely, including state-linked Produce Buying Company. Industry analysts emphasize that reliable pre-financing remains critical for maintaining timely purchases and stable export flows.

Nigerian Banks Enter Final Recapitalisation Phase Ahead of Deadline

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Nigerian Banks Enter Final Recapitalisation Phase Ahead of Deadline

Nigerian commercial banks are accelerating capital verification processes as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) approaches its March 31, 2026, recapitalisation deadline, with regulatory confirmations now replacing fundraising announcements as the sector’s primary focus.

Activity remained subdued during the week ended February 12, 2026, according to Proshare analysts, as lenders shifted attention from capital raising to regulatory validation. Twenty banks have confirmed compliance with revised thresholds, representing significant progress from the 16 banks that met requirements by December 2025.

FCMB Group Plc is undergoing capital verification by the CBN to determine whether it has achieved the 500 billion naira minimum required for international banking licences. The financial holding company secured its national banking licence in 2024 following an oversubscribed public offering and completed a 160 billion naira equity raise in 2025 as part of efforts to maintain international operations.

The verification follows multiple capital actions over 18 months, including a 147.5 billion naira share sale in 2024. Shareholders approved capital raising authority of up to 400 billion naira, positioning the group to exceed international thresholds subject to regulatory approval.

Sterling Bank has not disclosed its recapitalisation strategy, though analysts anticipate a rights issue or private placement to close the gap between its current 167 billion naira capital and the 200 billion naira requirement.

Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) completed a 10 billion naira private placement earlier this year, issuing 125 million ordinary shares at 80 naira each to a single institutional investor. Proshare analysts characterized the transaction as proactive capital buffer strengthening rather than regulatory necessity, reflecting sustained investor confidence ahead of tighter industry standards.

First HoldCo Plc released unaudited 2025 financial results highlighting asset quality pressures that rapidly eroded capital buffers through large impairment charges. Analysts noted the results underscore the importance of early capital planning and enhanced governance frameworks as regulatory expectations escalate.

Market speculation during the review period included unconfirmed reports of potential consolidation involving tier-one lenders and bank-led investments in refinery and energy infrastructure projects. Developments remain preliminary but indicate growing interest in diversification and scale advantages.

Smaller and mid-tier institutions are linking recapitalisation to foreign partnerships and mergers. Union Bank has attracted United Arab Emirates investor interest while resolving a legal dispute. Keystone Bank is engaging domestic and international parties regarding joint acquisition. Polaris Bank is expected to pursue investor-led recapitalisation or merge with another tier-two lender.

The CBN appears receptive to mergers and acquisitions as viable pathways for building larger, more resilient banking institutions, according to Proshare’s Economic and Market Intelligence Unit. Domestic investors continue expressing interest in distressed lenders, though analysts suggest foreign partnerships may prove necessary to satisfy unencumbered capital requirements.

The CBN’s latest fintech sector report adds complexity to the recapitalisation narrative by highlighting rapid digital finance growth and regulatory alignment requirements to sustain innovation. For traditional banks, the findings reinforce the need to balance competitive pressures from financial technology companies with partnership opportunities that can expand operational reach and efficiency.

Most tier-one and tier-two banks have achieved revised capital buffers with less than six weeks remaining before the deadline. Tier-three lenders face continued pressure to secure funding or combine operations to maintain competitiveness in the post-recapitalisation landscape.

The banking sector is pursuing approximately 4.14 trillion naira in fresh capital under the recapitalisation programme, which requires international banks to maintain 500 billion naira in paid-up capital, national banks to hold 200 billion naira, and regional banks to secure 50 billion naira. Non-interest banks face distinct targets of 20 billion naira for national operations and 10 billion naira for regional licences.

CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso confirmed in December 2025 that stress tests conducted throughout the year demonstrated the banking system remains fundamentally robust, with key financial soundness indicators meeting prudential standards. Twenty-seven banks accessed capital markets through public offerings and rights issues during the recapitalisation period.

At least seven banks are reportedly considering licence downgrades to reduce capital requirements. Licence categories determine operational scope, with international banks authorized for cross-border operations, national banks operating nationwide, and regional banks functioning within limited geographic areas.

Burna Boy Acquires High-Performance Porsche Sports Car in Lagos

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Burna Boy Acquires High-Performance Porsche Sports Car in Lagos

Nigerian musician Damini Ogulu, professionally known as Burna Boy, added a 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 RS to his vehicle collection, with social media videos showing the high-performance sports car in Lagos on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The luxury vehicle, which carries a manufacturer suggested retail price of approximately 241,300 United States dollars, translates to over 350 million naira based on current exchange rates. Videos circulating across multiple platforms captured the Grammy Award-winning artist behind the wheel of the distinctive sports car, reportedly delivered on Valentine’s Day.

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS features a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine producing 518 horsepower, enabling acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.0 seconds. The track-focused model incorporates advanced aerodynamic elements including front wheel arch louvres and a prominent rear wing designed for high-speed stability.

Burna Boy, who won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album in 2021 for his fifth studio album Twice as Tall, represents the first Nigerian solo artist to secure the prestigious honour. The 33-year-old musician has accumulated ten career Grammy nominations across five consecutive years from 2019 through 2023, establishing a record among Nigerian artists.

His latest album No Sign of Weakness, released in 2025, earned a nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 68th Grammy Awards held on February 1, 2026. Although he did not win that category, Burna Boy shared the Best African Collaboration award at the 2026 All Africa Music Awards with fellow Nigerian artist Shallipopi.

The acquisition follows a pattern among high-profile Nigerian entertainers investing in luxury automotive collections. Automotive pricing data indicates that Porsche vehicles command premium valuations in Nigeria due to import duties, registration fees, and limited availability through authorized dealerships.

The 2025 GT3 RS model launched globally earlier this year represents the latest evolution of Porsche’s flagship track-oriented sports car, distinguished by updated aerodynamics and refined suspension systems compared to previous generations. Nigerian automotive enthusiasts note that maintenance and parts availability for specialized European performance vehicles can present logistical challenges.

Burna Boy, whose international breakthrough arrived with the 2018 single Ye, has headlined major venues globally including becoming the first African artist to sell out a stadium show in the United States at Citi Field in New York during July 2023. He performed at the UEFA Champions League Final Kick Off Show in Istanbul before an estimated television audience exceeding 700 million viewers.

Industry observers indicate that prominent Nigerian artists frequently acquire luxury vehicles as both personal transportation and public brand statements. Social media engagement around celebrity automotive purchases typically generates substantial attention across entertainment news platforms.

The artist maintains residences in Lagos and internationally, though specific details regarding where the vehicle will be primarily stationed remain unconfirmed. Porsche Centre Lagos, the authorized dealership for the German manufacturer in Nigeria, has not issued statements regarding the transaction.

US Military Personnel Arrive Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Advisory Mission

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US Military Personnel Arrive Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Advisory Mission

United States military aircraft carrying approximately 100 American personnel landed at Nigerian Air Force bases on Thursday and Friday, February 13 and 14, 2026, marking the beginning of a deployment designed to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations through advisory support.

The first aircraft touched down at Maiduguri Airbase in Borno State on Thursday night, with additional flights arriving at Kainji Airbase in Niger State and other locations by Friday evening. Flight tracking data identified the aircraft as C-17A cargo planes and C-130J transport aircraft, with equipment offloading observed at multiple sites.

Defence Minister Christopher Musa confirmed that American forces will operate exclusively in non-combat advisory, intelligence analysis, and training capacities. Nigerian forces retain complete command authority over all military operations conducted on sovereign territory, according to Defence Headquarters spokesman Major General Samaila Uba.

The deployment stems from recommendations developed by a joint United States-Nigeria working group focused on enhancing bilateral security cooperation. Up to 200 American military personnel are expected to complete the phased arrival over coming weeks, supplementing a small contingent already operating in Nigeria.

Brant Philip, a counter-terrorism researcher who tracked the aircraft movements, indicated that Maiduguri Airbase will likely serve as the primary operational hub given its strategic proximity to areas controlled by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which maintains territorial presence across rural Borno State.

A United States Defence Department official, speaking anonymously due to operational sensitivity, described the initial arrivals as establishing secure communications infrastructure, base facilities, and operational security protocols in coordination with Nigerian counterparts. The official noted that American personnel will focus primarily on command post operations rather than frontline engagement.

The joint mission will operate across multiple volatile regions. A Nigerian official confirmed that personnel will deploy to northern states confronting jihadist groups including Boko Haram, as well as Middle Belt states experiencing persistent violence between predominantly Muslim Fulani herders and Christian farming communities.

Early operational focus involves delivering ammunition and equipment to Nigerian forces, particularly munitions for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). Additional transport flights are scheduled to continue landing at the three designated locations throughout February and March 2026.

American advisers already stationed in Nigeria have trained Nigerian special forces in warfare tactics including map interpretation, strike operations, and rescue support missions. The first batch of newly trained special forces deployed to Plateau State earlier this week, according to Nigerian officials.

The deployment follows sustained diplomatic pressure from United States President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticized the Nigerian government over security failures affecting Christian communities. Trump ordered missile strikes in northwestern Nigeria on December 25, 2025, targeting what American officials described as Islamic State terrorists responsible for attacks on Christian populations.

While Christian communities have suffered brutal assaults, Muslim populations and citizens of all religious backgrounds have experienced significant casualties in violence spanning northern and central Nigeria. The Nigerian government confirmed cooperation with American forces during the December strikes, providing intelligence used to identify targets.

United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) Commander Dagvin Anderson visited Abuja last week, confirming expanded bilateral agreements addressing terrorism and related security threats. Anderson declined to specify troop numbers but acknowledged that American forces had already begun operations under the new framework.

The mission timeline remains unspecified, though the Defence Department official indicated that the deployment is temporary, designed to support specific operational objectives over several months. Joint mission planning will incorporate intelligence gathered from Nigerian sources and United States surveillance flights operating from Ghana.

Security analysts describe the deployment as technical support emphasizing specialized expertise in drone operations and precision targeting rather than conventional combat deployment. Residents in Maiduguri expressed cautious optimism, with local traders near the airport voicing hope that enhanced security cooperation will enable communities to achieve lasting peace after years of insurgent violence.

AI Fraud Becomes Sophisticated as Investment Scams Surge Globally

Roger A. Agana
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AI Fraud Becomes Sophisticated as Investment Scams Surge Globally

Artificial intelligence is transforming cybercrime into a sophisticated industry as investment fraud losses reached 6.5 billion United States dollars in 2024, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center report released in April 2025.

Security firm Check Point warns that modern scams no longer rely on obvious red flags like poor grammar or crude impersonation. Instead, fraudsters deploy emotionally intelligent, personalized messages that bypass traditional detection methods, creating what cybersecurity analysts describe as a structural shift in fraud tactics.

Investment scams now account for approximately 45 to 47 percent of total global fraud losses, followed by impersonation schemes at 24 to 28 percent and employment fraud at 10 to 13 percent across major jurisdictions, according to regulatory data compiled through January 2026.

The FBI report documented 859,532 cybercrime complaints in 2024, representing losses exceeding 16 billion dollars, a 33 percent increase from 2023. Investment fraud alone generated 41,557 complaints, marking a 29 percent rise in cases and a 47 percent jump in losses compared to the previous year.

Check Point researchers identified four primary tactics deployed by AI-enabled scammers. The first involves polite, cooperative messaging that creates compliance rather than alarm. Research indicates that over 60 percent of successful phishing attacks now employ neutral or friendly language instead of fear-based approaches.

Personal data exploitation represents the second tactic. Studies show that emails containing personal details such as names, employers, or recent purchases generate click rates four times higher than generic messages. Scammers increasingly harvest publicly available information from social media, corporate websites, and data breaches to establish false credibility.

The third tactic employs voice cloning and deepfake video technology to impersonate family members, executives, or institutional officials. Financial institutions reported a 300 percent increase in deepfake-enabled fraud attempts during 2024, particularly involving emergency funding requests that discourage verification through established channels.

AI-generated text comprises the fourth method. While messages appear professionally written, they deliberately omit concrete details like transaction identifiers, case numbers, or verifiable contact information that would enable authentication. Check Point security strategists note this absence of accountability constitutes the clearest warning signal.

Cryptocurrency involvement amplified losses substantially. The FBI tracked 149,686 cryptocurrency-related complaints in 2024, with total reported costs exceeding 9.3 billion dollars, a 66 percent increase over 2023. Cryptocurrency investment fraud specifically accounted for 5.8 billion dollars in losses.

The FBI Recovery Asset Team froze 561 million dollars in fraudulent funds during 2024 using the Financial Fraud Kill Chain process, achieving a 66 percent success rate. Operation Level Up, launched to combat cryptocurrency investment fraud, alerted 4,323 victims, with 76 percent unaware they faced scams. The initiative referred 42 victims for suicide intervention and prevented an estimated 285 million dollars in losses.

Check Point discovered a sophisticated operation in October 2025 involving WhatsApp groups that simulated legitimate trading communities through AI-generated identities and coordinated inauthentic behavior. The scheme combined mobile applications distributed through official app stores, attacker-controlled infrastructure, and AI-assisted social engineering.

Experian forecasts 2026 as a tipping point for AI-enabled fraud, particularly as consumers increasingly deploy AI shopping agents. The company’s Future of Fraud Forecast warns that distinguishing between legitimate and malicious automated purchasing activity will challenge merchants already struggling with bot detection.

Cybersecurity experts emphasize that realism no longer indicates legitimacy. Check Point threat intelligence analysts recommend independent verification through official channels rather than contact information provided in suspicious messages. Treating urgent audio or video requests as unverified by default, regardless of apparent authenticity, represents critical protective behavior.

The FBI continues encouraging victims to file complaints through the IC3 website regardless of financial loss, noting that comprehensive reporting enables law enforcement to develop more accurate threat assessments and investigative strategies.

Sports Minister Calls for Fair Play in Kotoko-Hearts Clash

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Sports Minister Calls for Fair Play in Kotoko-Hearts Clash

Sports Minister Kofi Adams has urged Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak to prioritize sportsmanship ahead of their Ghana Premier League (GPL) encounter on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

Adams, who serves as Minister for Sports and Recreation, appealed to both teams to demonstrate skill, commitment, and passion while upholding values of fair play and mutual respect. He specifically cautioned match officials to maintain professionalism throughout the fixture, scheduled to kick off at 5:00 pm Greenwich Mean Time.

The minister directed supporters to exercise restraint and avoid hooliganism during what represents the 120th GPL meeting between Ghana’s two most decorated football clubs. He emphasized that the outcome should reflect genuine performance rather than external disruptions.

The Super Clash arrives at a critical moment for both teams. Kotoko, positioned fifth in the GPL standings with 35 points from 21 matches, have struggled recently despite maintaining a strong home record this season. Hearts of Oak occupy third place with 36 points.

The Porcupine Warriors recently suffered elimination from the MTN FA Cup, prompting the resignation of head coach Abdul Karim Zito on Monday, February 9. Assistant coaches Prince Yaw Owusu and Hamza Obeng have assumed interim control for this fixture.

Historical records dating to 1958 reveal an intensely contested rivalry. In all league competitions, Hearts lead with 36 victories compared to Kotoko’s 35 wins, while 36 matches have ended in draws. Hearts have scored 116 goals against Kotoko’s 125 across 107 league encounters.

Recent meetings show a narrower margin. Over the last 14 league fixtures, Kotoko secured five victories, Hearts claimed three wins, and six matches ended level. At the Accra Sports Stadium since 2020, Hearts hold two wins against Kotoko’s single victory and two draws.

Ahead of the match, Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly Chief Executive Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi visited Kotoko’s training grounds at Adako Jachie on Thursday, February 13, promising financial rewards for a convincing victory. A delegation from Manhyia Palace also boosted team morale during the same visit.

Kotoko defender Lord Amoah acknowledged recent poor performances and apologized to supporters for the FA Cup disappointment, expressing confidence that strong fan backing would help secure victory against their traditional rivals.

Adams concluded by calling for national unity through football, urging fans to fill the stadium and create an atmosphere that inspires both teams. The result is expected to significantly impact league standings as both clubs pursue continental qualification.

Chief Justice Urges Discipline and Integrity as 376 Law Students Begin Training

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Chief Justice Urges Discipline and Integrity as 376 Law Students Begin Training

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie urged newly admitted law students to cultivate discipline and integrity on Friday, emphasizing that the legal profession demands character beyond academic excellence during the 2025-2026 Kumasi Campus Induction Ceremony of the Ghana School of Law.

The ceremony marked the formal induction of 376 students into the Professional Law Course at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), representing the official commencement of their professional legal training and a key milestone in their journey toward the Bar.

Speaking at the event, Baffoe-Bonnie stated that the rigors of legal education are designed to prepare students for a profession rooted in public trust. He emphasized that students will be stretched intellectually and tested mentally, adding that the demands of legal training are meant to build discipline, not discourage students.

The Chief Justice described law as a vocation that shapes institutions, safeguards rights and sustains the rule of law, noting that society would one day depend on lawyers’ judgment, integrity and courage. He stressed that professional excellence requires more than mastery of legal principles but also unwavering ethical standards and commitment to public service.

Baffoe-Bonnie reassured the public that professional standards in Ghana’s legal system remain firmly enforced, citing a recent General Legal Council (GLC) meeting where only one petition was granted out of about 100 received. He stated that quality will never be compromised, adding that fairness in the qualification process including mechanisms such as retallying and remarking of examinations would continue to be applied diligently and within reasonable timelines.

The Chief Justice emphasized that maintaining high standards protects both public trust and the reputation of the legal profession. He acknowledged ongoing debates about legal education access while insisting that competence and ethical fitness must remain non negotiable requirements for admission to the Bar.

Kwame Owusu Sekyere, President of the Ashanti Bar Association, told students that law is a profession where results are not immediate. He stated that in law there is nothing like rapid results, adding that this is a profession highly regulated by ethics and rules that students need to inculcate in themselves.

Sekyere emphasized the role of the General Legal Council’s disciplinary committee, noting that any breach of ethics is carefully reviewed and defended only through compliance with professional standards. He stated that students can only defend themselves by adhering to the ethics of the profession, warning them not to underrate the fact that they are at the school to defend the liberties of the masses.

The Ashanti Bar President reminded inductees that when they emerge as qualified lawyers, society will expect them to discharge their duties as professional legal practitioners with integrity and competence. He stressed that the legal profession carries solemn responsibilities that extend far beyond personal career advancement.

The ceremony also celebrated the students’ entry into a year defined by purpose, commitment and the solemn responsibility that accompanies the study and practice of law. Officials and faculty congratulated the inductees and encouraged a year of growth, discipline and excellence.

Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie was sworn in as Ghana’s 16th Chief Justice on November 17, 2025, by President John Dramani Mahama following parliamentary approval on November 13, 2025. He was nominated for the substantive role on September 21, 2025, after serving as acting Chief Justice from April 22, 2025, following the suspension and later dismissal of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

Born on December 26, 1956, Baffoe-Bonnie attended Konongo Odumase Secondary School before studying law at the University of Ghana and Ghana School of Law, where he was called to the Bar in 1983. He served as Circuit Court judge in Kumasi, High Court judge at Duayaw Nkwanta, Court of Appeal judge from 2006 and Supreme Court justice from June 2008.

In his inaugural address as Chief Justice, Baffoe-Bonnie acknowledged calls for reform in legal education, stating that the future of the Bar is the future of the Bench. He pledged to work with the General Legal Council, Ghana School of Law and law faculties to pursue a model that ensures opportunity without compromising quality.

The Chief Justice has emphasized moving from exclusion to inclusion, from rote learning to critical thinking, and from credentialism to competence. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to foster a robust judicial environment that creates opportunities for youth while protecting individual rights and promoting national development.

The Ghana School of Law operates campuses in Accra and Kumasi, providing professional legal training for law graduates seeking admission to the Ghana Bar. The rigorous two year Professional Law Course includes instruction in professional ethics, legal practice, procedure, evidence and specialized areas of practice.

Successful completion of the Professional Law Course and passage of Bar examinations qualify graduates for call to the Bar by the General Legal Council. The council regulates legal education and professional standards while maintaining disciplinary jurisdiction over practicing lawyers.

The 376 students inducted at the Kumasi campus join their counterparts at the Accra campus in pursuing professional qualifications essential for legal practice in Ghana. The Professional Law Course represents the final stage of legal education before call to the Bar, following completion of undergraduate legal studies at accredited universities.

The induction ceremony underscored renewed emphasis on ethical foundations and professional responsibility amid ongoing debates about access to legal education and professional standards. Chief Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s remarks reflected the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining rigorous qualification standards while addressing legitimate concerns about inclusivity.

AGI Pledges Support for 24 Hour Economy Policy Implementation

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AGI Pledges Support for 24 Hour Economy Policy Implementation

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) reaffirmed strong support for the government’s 24 Hour Economy policy on Sunday, emphasizing that industry must drive the initiative for it to succeed while welcoming the passage of the 24 Hour Economy Authority Bill into law.

In a statement signed by AGI President Pharmacist Kofi Nsiah-Poku on February 9, 2026, the industry body stated that the core of the 24 Hour Economy is industrial and agricultural development. He emphasized that services are important but must be linked to production.

Parliament passed the 24 Hour Economy Authority Bill 2025 on Friday, February 6, 2026, providing legislative backing for one of the flagship policies of the John Dramani Mahama administration. The legislation establishes a corporate body to coordinate policy implementation across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and facilitate incentives for continuous industrial operations.

The AGI commended government for recent tax reforms but noted that legislative measures alone would not automatically result in active participation or job creation unless deliberate steps were taken to improve the business environment. The association stated that this initiative represents a bold step toward unlocking Ghana’s economic potential through round the clock productivity supported by a framework that stimulates investment and strengthens supply chains.

Nsiah-Poku explained that operating around the clock requires reliable infrastructure, affordable electricity, access to development financing, and efficient transportation and security systems. He stated that when industries work in shifts, financial institutions must also support them, adding that workers need transport and security in what must be a coordinated ecosystem.

The AGI President disclosed that the association had engaged the 24 Hour Economy Secretariat extensively and contributed ideas to the policy framework. The association is also in discussions with financial institutions including development finance institutions to secure medium to long term funding for industrial expansion.

Nsiah-Poku emphasized the importance of developing local value chains to reduce dependence on imported raw materials. He noted that if enterprises import most of their inputs, they remain at the mercy of exchange rate fluctuations, adding that strong local value chains ensure competitive pricing.

He added that government’s role in facilitating infrastructure, credit access and regulatory enforcement was critical. The AGI pledged to sensitize its members to prepare for operational adjustments including capacity development and technical upgrades to enable them to participate effectively in the 24 Hour Economy framework.

The AGI welcomed proposed incentives including tax rebates for multi shift operations, subsidized night time electricity tariffs and fast track import duty waivers for production equipment. The statement noted these measures will enable Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in manufacturing, agro processing and export sectors to expand operations, create jobs and increase local production.

While acknowledging that the incentives could reduce government revenue in the short term, AGI argued that supporting local industry would drive structural transformation, broaden the future tax base and enhance long term growth and fiscal stability. The statement emphasized the need for efficient and transparent access to fiscal and monetary incentives particularly in light of challenges experienced with the Tax Exemptions Act 2022 Act 1083.

AGI urged that beneficiaries of existing initiatives such as One District One Factory (1D1F) be integrated into the 24 hour economy framework. Nsiah-Poku stated that many of these facilities are currently operating below capacity, adding that targeted support will revive production, strengthen industrial output and create additional jobs.

The association noted that Ghana’s macroeconomic indicators are trending positively but emphasized the need for export diversification to sustain these gains. The statement noted that to sustain and deepen these gains achieved through the efforts of the President, the Minister for Finance and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, there is a critical need to diversify the export base.

The AGI stated that its membership spanning agriculture, agro processing, manufacturing and services places the association at the center of driving the policy’s success. The organization pledged to partner government to make the 24 Hour Economy a success and ensure it delivers exports, jobs and shared prosperity.

The AGI expressed expectations for strong regulatory oversight, effective public private coordination, mobilization of investment and provision of infrastructure to support 24 hour operations. The association reaffirmed its alignment with the strategic pillars of Grow24, Build24 and Make24.

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga stated during parliamentary debate that the legislation was designed to tackle the crisis of youth unemployment and empower the private sector to spearhead job creation. He explained that one of the key pillars of the initiative was Production Systems Development Transformation and Supply Chain Management.

The Bill is anchored on three main pillars including production systems development and transformation, development of supply chain and market systems, and labor development. The 2026 Budget allocated over 100 million cedis to finance the Authority’s activities and operations.

Roads and Highways Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza defended the policy during parliamentary consideration on Thursday, February 5, arguing that it is already being implemented through the government’s Big Push infrastructure program. He stated contractors across the country are currently working around the clock on major road and infrastructure projects to meet delivery timelines.

However, Member of Parliament for Bekwai Raph Poku Adusei cautioned that the proposed 24 Hour Economy Authority could create conflicts of interest and undermine its intended purpose. He questioned provisions in the bill that allow use of information without authorization, arguing such language could enable misuse.

The Gold Coast Refinery signed an agreement with the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, to refine approximately 52,000 kilograms of gold annually beginning February 1, 2026. The deal requires Gold Coast Refinery to process one metric ton of gold weekly, with operations around the clock in line with the government’s 24 hour economy policy.

The Feed Industries program led by the Ministry of Trade Industries and Agribusiness is projected to generate more than 18,000 direct and indirect jobs across farming, mechanization, aggregation, processing, logistics, quality control, packaging and exports. The program incorporates integrated accommodation models to support shift based work typical of continuous production environments.

The AGI represents over 1,200 member companies across 22 business sectors including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, plastics, textiles, wood products, paper products, metals and engineering. The association operates through six regional branches providing business development services, policy advocacy and networking platforms for members.

AMA Sanitation Court Convicts Eight for Open Defecation

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AMA Sanitation Court Convicts Eight for Open Defecation

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Sanitation Court convicted eight individuals for open defecation on Saturday, with seven remanded into prison custody after failing to pay a fine of 50 penalty units equivalent to 600 cedis.

The court imposed the penalty on each offender following their arrest during a night time enforcement operation conducted in parts of Accra including Bubuashie, Jamestown and Chorkor. While one of the convicts, Raphael Adjetey, settled the fine and was discharged, the remaining seven were unable to pay and were subsequently remanded.

Those remanded into custody are Samuel Aryeequaye, Evans Derry, Kwesi Milla, Richard Quintin Coffie, Seidu Aminu, Awuaaba Michael and Quarcoo Ernest. The seven will remain in prison until they pay the fines or serve an alternative custodial sentence.

Speaking after proceedings, Head of Public Affairs at the AMA Gilbert Nii Ankrah stated that the exercise was led by the Head of the Environmental Health Department Florence Kuukyi alongside Environmental Health Officers. He explained that the Assembly has intensified efforts to clamp down on unsanitary practices across the metropolis.

According to Ankrah, the Environmental Health Department has commenced 24 hour operations to ensure strict compliance with sanitation by laws. He added that officers are maintaining continuous monitoring both day and night to reduce public nuisance and safeguard public health.

The arrests were made during a special enforcement exercise targeting areas identified as sanitation hotspots where open defecation remains a persistent challenge. The convicts were found guilty of breaching the Assembly’s sanitation by laws under the Public Health Act 2012 Act 851 and the AMA Sanitation and Public Health Bye-laws 2017.

The AMA stated in a social media post that the convictions serve as a strong deterrent and reminder that offenders who fail to comply with sanitation laws will face legal consequences. Authorities emphasized that sustained public cooperation will be critical in achieving lasting improvements in urban sanitation standards.

Ankrah urged residents to desist from open defecation and to make use of approved sanitary facilities, warning that the Assembly would continue arrests and prosecutions to deter offenders and promote a cleaner city. He emphasized that the intensified enforcement represents a serious commitment to improving environmental cleanliness in the capital.

The AMA has in recent months stepped up enforcement measures as part of broader efforts to improve environmental cleanliness and reduce health risks associated with poor sanitation in Accra. The Assembly previously conducted similar operations in October 2025, resulting in convictions of seven persons for open defecation and illegal dumping.

In that exercise, offenders were also fined 50 penalty units equivalent to 600 cedis or faced three months imprisonment in default. The October 2025 convictions were presided over by Her Lordship Rosemond Vera Aryeetey, with prosecutor Nii Okine Aryee handling the cases.

The current enforcement drive forms part of what officials described as the Reset Accra agenda, reflecting renewed determination to enforce sanitation by laws and restore environmental discipline in the capital. The 24 hour operations represent an escalation from previous enforcement patterns that primarily occurred during daytime hours.

Open defecation remains a significant public health challenge in many parts of Accra, particularly in densely populated low income communities where access to toilet facilities is limited. Health experts have consistently linked poor sanitation practices to the spread of diseases including cholera, typhoid fever and other waterborne illnesses.

The Oti Region reported over 23,000 typhoid fever cases in the first half of 2025, largely linked to unhygienic practices and contaminated water sources according to health authorities. Similar sanitation enforcement efforts in Dambai resulted in over 100 convictions in September 2025, with fines ranging from 600 to 840.44 cedis representing 50 to 70 penalty units.

The Public Health Act 2012 Act 851 provides the legal framework for prosecuting sanitation offences across Ghana. Section 56 specifically addresses open defecation and indiscriminate refuse dumping, empowering Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to arrest and prosecute offenders.

Records show that in 2022 alone, over 470 sanitation offenders were prosecuted for similar offences across the Accra metropolis. The AMA Sanitation Court was established to expedite prosecution of sanitation related offences and strengthen deterrence against unhygienic practices.

Some assemblies across Ghana are following Accra’s example in establishing dedicated sanitation courts. The Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly announced in December 2025 that it plans to establish a Sanitation Court by the end of 2026 as part of measures to address persistent sanitation challenges.

Environmental health prosecutors emphasized that enforcement measures are not punitive for the sake of punishment but are meant to deter potential polluters and protect public health. Officials stressed that creating a clean and healthy environment requires both infrastructure provision and strict enforcement of existing laws.

The AMA has cautioned that similar enforcement exercises will continue until the city achieves compliance with sanitation standards. The Assembly called on residents to support the ongoing Clean Accra campaign and cooperate with enforcement officers conducting monitoring and surveillance operations.

Authorities urged households without toilet facilities to register with the Assembly for assistance in constructing approved sanitary infrastructure. The AMA also warned that residents who give waste to unauthorized collectors will face prosecution alongside the collectors themselves.

Ghana to Table UN Resolution Declaring Transatlantic Slave Trade Gravest Crime

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Ghana to Table UN Resolution Declaring Transatlantic Slave Trade Gravest Crime

President John Dramani Mahama announced on Sunday that Ghana will formally table a landmark resolution at the United Nations (UN) General Assembly on March 25 declaring the trafficking in enslaved Africans and racialized chattel enslavement as the gravest crime against humanity, following African Union (AU) endorsement at ministerial level.

In a statement issued by the Presidency on Sunday, February 15, 2026, President Mahama disclosed that the resolution has been adopted by the African Union, paving the way for its submission to the global body. He stated that all peoples of African descent have been waiting for this day, adding that the truth cannot be buried and the legal foundations are sound while the moral imperative is undeniable.

The president spoke in his role as AU Champion for Advancing the Cause of Justice and the Payment of Reparations during his report to the 39th Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He revealed that the zero draft of the resolution is ready and will be circulated to all member states for consultation and coordinated advocacy.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa addressed the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs at the AU Summit on Wednesday, February 11, calling for unified African Union support as Ghana prepares to table the resolution. He stated that Ghana intends to present the resolution at the UN General Assembly on March 25, seeking universal recognition of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade as crimes against humanity.

The March 25 date coincides with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, a date set aside by the UN to honour millions affected by the centuries long trade. United Nations records indicate that the transatlantic slave trade, which spanned approximately 400 years, forcibly removed more than 15 million African men, women and children to North and South America, the Caribbean and Europe.

Ablakwa noted that the transatlantic slave trade decimated African populations and laid the foundations for global economic inequalities that persist today. He emphasized that the initiative seeks not only recognition but a global legal framework to advance healing, accountability, restitution and restorative justice.

President Mahama first announced Ghana’s intention to table the resolution during his address at the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in September 2025, signaling Ghana’s renewed commitment to the global reparations agenda. He stated that reparatory justice will not be handed to Africans but like independence, it must be secured through unity and determination.

The president described 2025, designated as the African Union Year of Justice through Reparations, as a turning point in the push for accountability and redress for Africans and people of African descent affected by slavery and colonialism. He noted that significant steps have already been taken including establishment of an AU Coordination Team and a Committee of Experts on Reparations.

President Mahama reported progress in setting up continental mechanisms on reparations, including the AU Coordination Team on Reparations, the AU Committee of Experts on Reparations, and a Reference Group of Legal Experts to provide legal and technical guidance. He described the AU’s designation of 2025 as the Year of Justice for Africans through Reparations as a strategic policy step rather than a symbolic gesture.

Ghana was honored to have championed reparations efforts in 2025 and welcomed the recommendation of the AU’s 7th Mid Year Coordination Meeting to transition current advocacy into a Decade of Reparations from 2026 to 2035. The president urged member states to establish national reparations commissions, engage formally with historical perpetrator states, and support the proposed Decade of Reparations to sustain momentum.

Minister Ablakwa stated that Ghana has engaged extensively with experts within the African Union, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Reparations Commission, and the wider African diaspora to build broad based support for the initiative. He stressed that by standing together at the UN, Africa signals to the world that it will no longer allow the scale of its historical suffering to be minimized.

The Foreign Affairs Minister underscored that the transatlantic slave trade and slavery were not just historical events but ongoing legacies that continue to shape African development trajectories. He stated it is imperative that Africa remains steadfast in pursuit of justice, recognizing that the scars of colonialism and slavery continue to impact development.

President Mahama earlier announced Ghana’s intention to table the resolution during the annual New Year exchange of greetings with members of the Diplomatic Corps at the Presidency on Tuesday, February 10. He outlined Ghana’s foreign policy priorities for 2026, emphasizing diplomacy as a strategic tool for economic transformation, regional stability and global cooperation.

The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Ghana Imane Ouaadil, congratulated Ghana on its peaceful democratic transition and described the country as a beacon of democracy in Africa. She commended Ghana’s humanitarian outreach to nations facing crises including recent missions to Jamaica, Sudan, Palestine and Cuba.

President Mahama serves as AU Champion for three portfolios including Gender and Development Issues, African Union Financial Institutions, and Reparations. His multiple champion roles position Ghana at the forefront of key continental initiatives during his tenure as AU First Vice Chairperson elected on Saturday, February 14, at the 39th summit.

The resolution forms part of sustained continental advocacy that has gained momentum through high level engagements with major global institutions including the UN and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), alongside discussions across four continents. The campaign aims to reframe reparations as forward looking instruments for justice, equity and structural transformation.

President Mahama called on current African leaders to pursue justice and restore dignity to African peoples, stating that the work is far from over. He urged all member states to strengthen institutions, establish national reparations commissions, and engage with the global community to secure apologies, restitution and binding agreements.

The initiative has received support from various stakeholders including the CARICOM Reparations Commission, which has been advocating for reparations from European nations for over a decade. Caribbean nations have particular interest given that millions of enslaved Africans were transported to Caribbean islands where they formed majority populations under brutal plantation systems.

Ghana’s leadership on reparations reflects the country’s historical significance as both a major transit point for the transatlantic slave trade through coastal forts including Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, and as the first sub Saharan African nation to gain independence in 1957 under Kwame Nkrumah’s Pan Africanist leadership.

The proposed UN resolution seeks formal and universal recognition that could establish precedents for future legal claims and diplomatic negotiations with former colonial powers. Legal experts suggest that such recognition could strengthen moral and political pressure on Western nations to engage seriously with reparations demands.

Kwetey Defends NDC Handling of Vote Buying Allegations Amid NPP Criticism

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Kwetey Defends NDC Handling of Vote Buying Allegations Amid NPP Criticism

General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Fifi Fiavi Kwetey defended the party’s handling of vote buying allegations in the Ayawaso East parliamentary primary on Tuesday, as critics questioned why the NDC ultimately maintained Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed as candidate despite widespread concerns about inappropriate conduct.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, February 10, Kwetey stated that the investigative committee recommended nullification ideally but constitutional and time constraints made it impossible to implement that decision. He emphasized that the party took decisive action by establishing an investigative committee, which he contrasted with what he suggested was the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) failure to address similar allegations during its own flagbearer race.

The NDC General Secretary cited the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) announcement on Sunday, February 8, that it had launched investigations into alleged vote buying and corruption during both the NPP presidential primary held on January 31, 2026, and the NDC parliamentary primary in Ayawaso East on February 7, 2026.

Kwetey stated the party established a three member investigative committee led by veteran politician Kofi Totobi Quakyi to examine allegations, adding that the committee found evidence of inappropriate conduct involving virtually all candidates competing in the primary. He emphasized this represented a serious attempt to address concerns, though constitutional limitations and tight electoral timelines prevented nullification.

Activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor praised Kwetey’s handling of the matter on Monday, February 9, describing it as an example of true grit and the kind of leadership expected from a party’s chief administrator. In a Facebook post, Barker-Vormawor challenged the NPP to demonstrate similar resolve by sanctioning individuals who allegedly engaged in vote buying during its most recent presidential flagbearer elections.

Member of Parliament for Oforikrom Michael Kwasi Aidoo stated on Saturday, February 15, on Newsfile that the NDC raised concerns about similar conduct during the NPP’s flagbearer race but suggested the NPP did not have the conscience to take action as the NDC claimed it would. He stated that massive vote buying rocked the NPP presidential primary but the party failed to address it decisively.

Former NPP Constituency Chairman for Fomena Kwasi Nti Asamoah stated on Tuesday, February 10, on Angel FM that vote buying occurred during the NPP presidential primary, with delegates receiving payments ranging from 500 to 700 cedis depending on the candidate. He stated that all candidates paid but the richest won, adding that such practices have always been part of Ghana’s electoral process.

The OSP statement on February 8 indicated that investigations into the NPP presidential primary will examine claims of vote buying and the sources of funding for the alleged corrupt acts. The anti graft agency stated the probe will cover incidents from the January 31 primary that saw Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerge victorious with 56.48 percent of votes.

Dr Bawumia secured 110,645 votes to become the NPP’s flagbearer for the 2028 presidential election, defeating Kennedy Agyapong who received 46,554 votes representing 23.76 percent, Dr Bryan Acheampong with 36,303 votes representing 18.53 percent, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum with 1,999 votes representing 1.02 percent, and Kwabena Agyapong with 402 votes representing 0.21 percent.

The NPP has not publicly announced any investigation into alleged vote buying during its presidential primary, despite the OSP probe and widespread reports from delegates and observers about cash and goods distribution during campaigning. NPP Communications Director Richard Ahiagbah described circumstances surrounding the NDC Ayawaso East primary as a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic values without addressing similar allegations within his own party.

Election Watch Ghana noted in a statement issued on Monday, February 9, that while Section 33 of the Representation of the People Law 1992 prohibits vote buying in general elections, the law currently does not explicitly cover internal party elections. This loophole creates an environment where candidates may feel emboldened to engage in such practices, the organization stated.

The NDC Ayawaso East primary saw Baba Jamal win with 431 votes, defeating Hajia Amina Adam who received 399 votes, constituency chairman Mohammed Ramneand with 88 votes, Dr Yakubu Azimdow with 45 votes and Najib Sani with one vote. Reports indicated that some candidates distributed 32 inch television sets, motorbikes, boiled eggs, ice chests, sanitary pads and cash to delegates.

President John Dramani Mahama ordered the immediate recall of Baba Jamal from his position as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria on Sunday, February 8, following the vote buying allegations. The OSP charged Baba Jamal with corruption, assault and obstruction of OSP officers on Tuesday, February 10, after an officer conducting real time investigations was allegedly attacked by thugs during the primary.

The NDC announced plans to expand the investigative committee from three to seven members to conduct a comprehensive review of the entire process leading to internal elections. Kwetey stated the expanded committee will develop recommendations to deal with what he described as the inappropriate canker affecting party elections.

Policy analyst and Vice President of IMANI Africa Kofi Bentil argued on Friday, February 13, that poverty is the root cause of vote buying and that any intervention aimed at addressing it will either worsen the situation or merely dance around the core issue without resolving it. He explained that as long as ordinary Ghanaians struggle to make ends meet, they will look everywhere including money distributed by politicians as a source of livelihood.

The controversy has sparked renewed debate about monetization of internal party elections across Ghana’s political landscape. Civil society organizations have called on political parties to strengthen internal mechanisms for detecting and punishing electoral malpractice in primaries and internal elections.

The Electoral Commission scheduled the Ayawaso East by election for March 3, 2026, following the death of former Member of Parliament Naser Toure Mahama on January 4, 2026. Baba Jamal filed his nomination on Wednesday, February 11, to contest the seat despite ongoing OSP investigations.

Mahama Calls for United African Front on Return of Cultural Artifacts

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Mahama Calls for United African Front on Return of Cultural Artifacts

President John Dramani Mahama called on African leaders to present a united front in demanding the return of cultural artifacts taken from the continent and held abroad, stating that Africa must speak with one voice until every African object unjustly held is returned to its rightful spiritual and historical origin.

Speaking at a high level panel side event during the 39th Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) on Sunday, February 15, 2026, President Mahama, who serves as AU Champion for Reparations, emphasized that the ongoing restitution debate extends beyond physical transfer of artifacts to addressing historical injustice, restoring cultural identity and healing spiritual disruption caused by colonial era expropriation.

The president stated that African leaders must speak with one voice until every African object that is unjustly held abroad is returned, not merely to a location but to a people, returned to a living culture, returned to its rightful spiritual and historical origin. He emphasized that the return of looted African heritage must reconnect communities to their roots and restore the cultural continuity broken during the colonial period.

The side event, titled Reparations, Memory and Sovereignty: Common African Position on the Restitution of Heritage Resources, took place on Friday, February 13, according to AU documentation, though Mahama’s specific remarks were delivered during summit proceedings. The event aimed to popularize the Common African Position on Restitution of Cultural Property and Heritage adopted by AU member states.

Key objectives included strengthening consensus on the restitution agenda for international engagements, highlighting work of the Intergovernmental Committee for Promoting the Return of Cultural Property to its Countries of Origin (ICPRCP), and enhancing awareness on continental instruments to assist member states in strengthening legislative frameworks on heritage protection.

The panel brought together AU political leadership in line with the upcoming Decade on Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations scheduled to run from 2026 through 2035. Ghana’s mandate as champion on reparations has been extended for ten years, positioning President Mahama to lead advocacy efforts throughout this framework period.

According to scholars cited in recent heritage research, over 90 percent of sub Saharan Africa’s cultural heritage remains held outside the continent, largely in Western museums. The Sarr-Savoy report commissioned by the French government in 2018 revealed over 70,000 African artifacts housed at the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris alone.

Germany holds an estimated 1,100 Benin Bronzes, much of which were plundered during the 1897 British invasion of the Kingdom of Benin in present day Nigeria. The tide has been turning, however, with a wave of high profile restitutions taking place between 2021 and 2025.

Germany officially returned the first set of Benin Bronzes in 2022, France handed back 26 royal treasures to Benin Republic in 2021, and the Netherlands in June 2025 returned 119 looted objects to Nigeria in the largest single transfer to date. Institutions including the Smithsonian, University of Cambridge, Oxford and the Humboldt Forum have all joined the movement.

In November 2025, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II received 130 gold and bronze artifacts from the United Kingdom and South Africa, some looted during colonial times while others were acquired on the open market. The returned items included royal regalia, drums and ceremonial gold weights dating back to the 1870s, highlighting the central cultural role gold played in Asante society.

The growing movement is underpinned by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) 1970 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, which has become the global framework for heritage restitution. In 2025, the African Union declared the year as the Year of Cultural Heritage and Reparations under Agenda 2063.

Nigeria has taken a leading role in preserving returning heritage through a presidential decree issued in 2023 establishing that the Oba of Benin would serve as legal custodian of repatriated Benin Bronzes, while the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) would oversee conservation and public display.

Nigeria launched construction of the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), designed by world renowned architect Sir David Adjaye, with the facility scheduled to open in 2025 offering modern conservation laboratories, climate controlled galleries and educational programming. The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), which opened its Institute building in 2025, integrates advanced preservation technologies.

In Senegal, the Musée des Civilisations Noires in Dakar has become a beacon for repatriated objects and pan African culture. Opened in 2018, it is equipped to house over 18,000 artifacts, many of which are expected to return from France.

Development historian and lawyer Dr Yaw Anokye Frimpong commended President Mahama in January 2026 for boldly raising the issue of reparations, urging African leaders to sustain calls for return of artifacts and valuables stolen during the trans Atlantic slave trade. He stated that President Mahama deserves recognition because among African leaders, he is the one who has consistently brought up the subject of reparations.

Dr Frimpong emphasized the need for African unity, noting that division left the continent vulnerable to exploitation. He stated that the only reason someone would steal what belongs to another is disunity among the owners, adding that Africans must speak with one voice and connect with Africans in the diaspora.

The African Union’s Agenda 2063 identifies culture as a key driver of growth, calling for creation of a Pan African Cultural Agency to support museums, festivals, film, music and crafts. However, UNESCO estimates that less than 15 percent of cultural heritage projects in Africa are locally funded, with most relying on international donors, bilateral agreements or philanthropic foundations.

Ghana’s Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, which houses Asante royal artifacts, saw visitor numbers nearly double in 2024, reaching 87,000 by October, demonstrating that returned heritage drives both cultural pride and economic benefit. The museum expansion followed repatriation of significant artifacts from international collections.

President Mahama’s remarks at the AU summit underscore Ghana’s commitment to leading continental efforts on reparations and cultural restitution. The Decade on Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations framework provides institutional infrastructure for coordinated claims and sustained advocacy throughout the next ten years.

The panel discussion facilitated dialogue among member states on strengthening legislative frameworks, identifying pilot projects for restitution including potential bilateral agreements and technical cooperation frameworks, and promoting greater involvement of youth and local communities through digital heritage tools, education initiatives and public engagement strategies.

NDC Cites Constitutional Constraints for Maintaining Baba Jamal as Candidate

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NDC Cites Constitutional Constraints for Maintaining Baba Jamal as Candidate

General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Fifi Fiavi Kwetey disclosed on Tuesday that although the investigative committee established to examine alleged vote buying and inappropriate conduct in the Ayawaso East parliamentary primary recommended nullification of the election, constitutional and time constraints made it impossible to overturn the results.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, February 10, Kwetey stated that the committee’s report indicated ideally the party should have annulment of the primary. However, the committee acknowledged real obstacles that made it difficult to implement that recommendation, citing constitutional limitations and tight electoral timelines.

The General Secretary explained that the party faced a critical deadline as the Electoral Commission (EC) scheduled nominations for the Ayawaso East by election to close on Wednesday, February 11, leaving insufficient time to conduct a fresh primary. He stated that the party is time bound because it needed to present a candidate to the EC on February 11, and potential legal challenges could be mounted by whoever won.

Kwetey further disclosed that the party’s constitution does not provide for annulment of parliamentary primaries under such circumstances, leaving leadership without clear constitutional authority to overturn the results despite concerns about the conduct of the election. He stated that the combination of time pressures, constitutional limitations and potential legal challenges led the party to retain Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed as its candidate.

The three member investigative committee was led by veteran politician Kofi Totobi Quakyi, former Minister of Information. The committee found evidence of inappropriate conduct involving all candidates competing in the primary, not solely Baba Jamal, according to the General Secretary.

Kwetey announced that the NDC plans to expand the investigative committee from three to seven members as part of broader internal reforms aimed at strengthening party processes. He stated the party will conduct a comprehensive review of the whole process that led to internal elections, adding four more members to make it a seven member committee so they can come out with recommendations to deal with this inappropriate canker as far as elections are concerned.

The Ayawaso East parliamentary primary held on Saturday, February 7, attracted national attention after reports emerged that some candidates distributed items including 32 inch television sets, motorbikes, boiled eggs, ice chests, sanitary pads and cash to delegates during the exercise. Baba Jamal won with 431 votes, defeating Hajia Amina Adam who received 399 votes, constituency chairman Mohammed Ramneand with 88 votes, Dr Yakubu Azimdow with 45 votes and Najib Sani with one vote.

President John Dramani Mahama ordered the immediate recall of Baba Jamal from his position as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria on Sunday, February 8, following the vote buying allegations. The recall occurred one day after the primary, signaling presidential concern about the reports.

The NDC Majority Caucus in Parliament issued a statement on Sunday, February 8, signed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, condemning the alleged acts as contrary to the party’s stated agenda to reset Ghana’s politics and restore integrity to the democratic process. The caucus demanded immediate cancellation of the primary and disqualification of any candidate found to have engaged in vote buying.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) released Baba Jamal on self recognizance bail on Tuesday, February 10, after charging him with corruption, assault and obstruction of OSP officers. The charges stem from investigations into alleged vote buying incidents during the February 7 primary.

The OSP revealed in a public notice issued on Saturday, February 8, that its officer conducting real time investigations into alleged vote buying and selling in Ayawaso East Constituency was attacked by thugs acting on instructions of Baba Jamal during the primary. The officer was serving an investigative directive on the candidate when the incident occurred.

Baba Jamal has vehemently denied allegations of vote buying, insisting he did not engage in any form of inducement during the primary. He filed his nomination with the Electoral Commission on Wednesday, February 11, to contest the Ayawaso East by election scheduled for March 3, 2026.

The seat became vacant following the death of former Member of Parliament Naser Toure Mahama on January 4, 2026. Hajia Amina Adam, widow of the late MP, came second in the primary with 399 votes but has not publicly contested the results or demanded a rerun.

The decision to maintain Baba Jamal sparked divided reactions within the party and broader public. Critics including former NDC parliamentary aspirant Haruna Mohammed described the investigative process as meaningless and argued the party has become a clearing agent for vote buying.

Transparency International Ghana demanded harsh and punitive sanctions for vote buying, calling on political parties to demonstrate zero tolerance for electoral malpractice that undermines democratic processes. Consumer advocate Kofi Kapito questioned why candidates would feed people for votes, describing the practice as part of broader cultural issues hindering progress.

However, some party officials defended the decision as pragmatic given constitutional constraints and electoral realities. Former Deputy Attorney General Anthony Nukpenu argued that NDC MPs had no right to demand annulment, suggesting the caucus statement exceeded their constitutional authority within party structures.

The Council of Zongo Chiefs in Ayawaso East Constituency warned NDC leadership against annulling the primaries, stating such a move could trigger tension within the constituency. Vice Chairman Sarki Tanko Amadu questioned what would happen if the party cancelled the election given that Nima was already united.

The controversy highlighted ongoing challenges around monetization of internal party elections across Ghana’s political landscape. Both major parties have faced allegations of vote buying during primaries, though enforcement and penalties remain inconsistent.

The NDC’s decision reflects tensions between aspirations for clean internal democracy and practical constraints imposed by electoral timelines, constitutional provisions and legal considerations. The expanded seven member committee represents the party’s attempt to address systemic issues while acknowledging immediate limitations prevented the ideal outcome of annulment.

Government Confirms Ghanaian Traders Caught in Burkina Faso Terrorist Attack

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Government Confirms Ghanaian Traders Caught in Burkina Faso Terrorist Attack

The Government of Ghana confirmed on Sunday that a truck carrying Ghanaian tomato traders was caught in a terrorist attack in Titao, northern Burkina Faso, on Saturday, with no casualties confirmed as authorities work to establish full details of the incident.

According to a statement from the Ministry of the Interior and National Security, the government received disturbing information from Burkina Faso regarding the incident that occurred on Saturday, February 14. Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak stated that the Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso is liaising with officials of Burkina Faso to visit the attack site for details and identification of Ghanaians caught in the attack.

The minister indicated that the attack targeted a military camp in Titao, where installations were damaged during the assault, according to local reports. He stated that the Government of Ghana has received disturbing information from Burkina Faso of a truck carrying tomato traders from Ghana which was caught in a terrorist attack in Titao on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The Ministry stated that the Ghana Embassy in Burkina Faso is coordinating with Burkinabe authorities to visit the scene, gather details and assist in identifying any Ghanaians affected. The purpose of the visit is to gather firsthand information and assist in identifying any Ghanaian nationals who may have been affected.

The government stated it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as more verified information becomes available. Minister Mohammed-Mubarak assured the public that steps are being taken to establish the facts and provide the necessary support to affected individuals and their families.

The circumstances surrounding the incident, including possible casualties and injuries, are yet to be officially confirmed. The exact number of victims and their conditions remain unknown pending embassy verification and official reports from Burkinabe authorities.

Titao, located in northern Burkina Faso, has in recent years experienced recurrent extremist violence amid ongoing security challenges in the Sahel region. The town has been repeatedly targeted by armed groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates operating in the tri border area between Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

The incident comes amid ongoing security challenges in the Sahel region, where Burkina Faso has faced repeated attacks by extremist groups in recent years. The country has experienced a surge in violence since 2015, with attacks on military installations, civilian targets and infrastructure becoming increasingly common.

Burkina Faso’s military junta, which seized power in January 2022 and consolidated control through a second coup in September 2022, has struggled to contain the extremist insurgency despite pledging to restore security. Captain Ibrahim Traore, who leads the current government, promised swift action against armed groups but violence has continued across large swathes of the country.

The Sahel region, which includes Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Chad and Mauritania, has become a major theater for extremist activity over the past decade. Groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State have exploited weak governance, ethnic tensions and porous borders to establish strongholds and launch attacks across the region.

Ghana maintains diplomatic relations with Burkina Faso and operates an embassy in Ouagadougou, the Burkinabe capital. The two West African nations share economic and cultural ties, with cross border trade remaining significant despite security concerns.

Ghanaian traders frequently travel through Burkina Faso and other Sahel countries for commercial purposes, particularly in the agricultural sector. Tomato traders from northern Ghana regularly transport produce through the region, navigating security risks to access markets in landlocked countries.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has not issued additional statements beyond confirming that the embassy is coordinating with local authorities. Government officials say efforts are underway to gather verified information and provide the necessary support to any Ghanaian nationals impacted by the attack.

Ghana’s security services maintain monitoring of regional threats and periodically issue travel advisories for citizens traveling to countries experiencing instability. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs typically advises Ghanaians to exercise caution when traveling through volatile areas in the Sahel.

The attack on the truck carrying Ghanaian traders highlights risks faced by West African nationals conducting business in regions affected by extremist violence. Similar incidents have occurred in previous years, though many go unreported or receive limited international attention.

Burkina Faso has lost control of significant portions of its territory to armed groups, with the government unable to provide security in many rural areas. The country hosts approximately 2 million internally displaced persons who fled violence, creating a humanitarian crisis that strains resources.

Regional efforts to combat extremism through multinational forces have achieved limited success. The collapse of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) G5 Sahel joint force and withdrawal of French military support following political tensions have further complicated security coordination.

The government promised to communicate further details to the public as information becomes available through diplomatic channels. Officials emphasized that verification through proper channels remains essential before releasing casualty figures or identifying affected individuals.

Omane Acheampong Criticizes Government’s Cocoa Sector Price Reduction

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Omane Acheampong Criticizes Government’s Cocoa Sector Price Reduction

Gospel musician and New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporter Nicholas Omane Acheampong criticized the government’s handling of the cocoa sector on Sunday, describing its explanation for reducing producer prices as unconvincing following the February 12 announcement that lowered farmgate rates.

The musician took issue with the claim that falling international cocoa prices justified lowering the purchasing value for farmers. He stated that the excuse does not hold, arguing that the government cannot simply tell farmers that because prices have fallen somewhere, they must carry the burden.

Omane Acheampong argued that leadership requires cushioning citizens during difficult periods, not transferring pressure onto them. He emphasized that governments should protect vulnerable populations including cocoa farmers from external shocks rather than immediately passing losses through to producers.

Drawing comparisons with the previous NPP administration led by former President Nana Akufo-Addo and former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Omane Acheampong recalled pandemic era interventions. He stated that during COVID-19, free water and free electricity were provided, yet those who implemented the programs were criticized and told they had done nothing.

The musician believes the current government rode into office on rhetoric rather than delivery. He stated that the administration bragged their way to power, adding that Ghanaians are waiting to see the substance behind campaign promises made before the December 2024 elections.

Omane Acheampong maintained that accountability should apply across political lines. He concluded by stating that if government promises better, then officials should show better through concrete actions supporting farmers and citizens facing economic hardship.

The Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) reduced the farmgate price to 41,392 cedis per tonne on Wednesday, February 12, from 58,000 cedis announced in October 2025, equivalent to 2,587 cedis per 64 kilogram bag. Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson explained the adjustment followed world market cocoa prices falling to approximately 4,100 dollars per tonne from an average of 7,200 dollars when the season began in August 2025.

The government stated it would pay farmers 90 percent of the achieved gross Free on Board (FOB) price of 4,200 dollars per tonne for the remainder of the 2025-26 season to cushion them against falling global prices. The percentage paid significantly exceeds the statutory minimum of 70 percent of gross FOB price mandated by existing legislation.

Thousands of farmers endured months without payment as unsold cocoa stocks accumulated at collection centers during the period when Ghana’s farmgate prices exceeded international market levels. Many farmers smuggled beans across borders to Cote d’Ivoire where they received faster payments and higher prices, undermining official supply chains.

Cabinet directed Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to immediately pay all outstanding amounts owed to cocoa farmers and approved introduction of a new Cocoa Board Bill to Parliament that will introduce automatic producer price adjustments based on world market trends and exchange rates. The bill will guarantee farmers a minimum of 70 percent of gross FOB price.

The government will replace the 32 year old syndicated loan model and the failed buyer financed model of 2024 with a new system using domestic cocoa bonds for the 2026-27 season. Cabinet also approved conversion of 5.8 billion cedis in legacy debt owed to the Ministry of Finance and Bank of Ghana (BoG) into equity to restore COCOBOD’s balance sheet.

President John Dramani Mahama announced at the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa on Saturday that Ghana will stop using foreign financing to purchase cocoa and instead raise domestic bonds in cedis, while unlocking 400,000 tons of cocoa beans for local processing. He revealed that current financing arrangements require beans to be collateralized and shipped outside the country, preventing allocation to domestic processors.

The price reduction sparked intense debate within Ghana’s political landscape. The NPP Minority in Parliament criticized the decision, with some members calling for increased taxes on mining companies to subsidize cocoa farmers rather than reducing farmgate prices.

Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association of Ghana (LCOBA) endorsed the revised farmgate price as necessary alignment with global market realities. General Secretary Vitus Dzah stated that long term sector survival depends on collective resolve among government, regulators, buyers and farmers to embrace adjustments responding to market dynamics.

Some cocoa farmers expressed willingness to accept lower prices for future deliveries provided government first cleared outstanding arrears for beans already delivered at previously announced rates. Industry analysts noted that Ghana’s fixed price system created vulnerabilities when international market conditions shifted rapidly.

The Akufo-Addo administration implemented several social intervention programs during the COVID-19 pandemic including free electricity for lifeline consumers using zero to 50 kilowatt hours monthly from April through June 2020, with 50 percent relief for other residential and commercial customers. The government also provided free water to all Ghanaians from April through September 2020.

These interventions cost the government billions of cedis but were credited with providing immediate relief during strict lockdown measures that prevented many citizens from earning income. Critics at the time argued that targeted cash transfers would have been more efficient than universal subsidies benefiting even wealthy households.

The NPP government also distributed free face masks, implemented tax reliefs and provided soft loans to businesses affected by pandemic restrictions. However, the interventions failed to prevent the party’s electoral defeat in December 2024 as voters cited broader economic challenges including high inflation, currency depreciation and unemployment.

Omane Acheampong has consistently supported NPP policies and criticized NDC governments throughout his public career. His latest comments reflect ongoing partisan debates about government performance evaluation and appropriate policy responses to economic challenges facing cocoa farmers.

Omane Acheampong Questions Mahama Government’s Performance After One Year

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Omane Acheampong Questions Mahama Government’s Performance After One Year

Gospel musician and New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporter Nicholas Omane Acheampong stated on Sunday that he is struggling to find anything impressive about the performance of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government under President John Dramani Mahama after just over one year in office.

In a blunt assessment of the administration shared in a video on social media, Omane Acheampong stated he cannot even rate the government’s performance. He asked what the administration has done that is extraordinary, questioning what Ghanaians can point to apart from the dollar stabilizing somewhat against the cedi.

According to the veteran musician, many Ghanaians are still feeling the weight of economic pressure. He described a climate marked by rising costs of goods and services, stating that there is hardship everywhere and urging people to go to the market, go to the fuel station and talk to ordinary traders who are struggling.

Omane Acheampong insisted that expectations were high when the NDC returned to power in January 2025, but he believes those expectations have not been met. He stated the assessment is not about politics alone but about the daily reality of the Ghanaian people.

The gospel artist stated that if asked to score the government today, he honestly cannot because there is nothing significant enough to celebrate. He emphasized that his criticism reflects concerns shared by ordinary citizens rather than partisan political calculations.

President Mahama was inaugurated on January 7, 2025, following the NDC’s decisive victory in the December 2024 general elections. The party secured 183 parliamentary seats compared to the NPP’s 88, while Mahama defeated NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia by over 1.6 million votes.

The Ghana cedi strengthened from approximately 16 cedis per dollar in December 2024 to around 10.98 cedis by early February 2026 following government debt restructuring, International Monetary Fund (IMF) program compliance and improved foreign exchange inflows. The Bank of Ghana (BoG) reduced the Monetary Policy Rate from 28 percent to 18 percent over consecutive meetings through February 2026.

However, inflation remains elevated at 18.1 percent as of January 2026, down from 23.2 percent in December 2024, while food inflation stood at 20.3 percent. Many Ghanaians continue facing high costs for basic goods and services despite macroeconomic improvements reflected in official statistics.

The government has implemented several policy initiatives including the 24 hour economy strategy targeting job creation, reduction of the effective Value Added Tax (VAT) rate from 21.9 percent to 20 percent, and abolition of the COVID-19 Health Recovery Levy effective January 2026.

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson announced comprehensive cocoa sector reforms on February 12, including a new domestic cocoa bond financing system replacing the collapsed syndicated loan model. The government also announced plans to process a minimum of 50 percent of cocoa beans locally beginning the 2026-27 season.

President Mahama announced at the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa on Saturday that Ghana will stop using foreign financing to purchase cocoa and instead raise domestic bonds in cedis, while setting a 2030 deadline to end exports of unprocessed mineral ores including manganese, bauxite and iron ore.

The government secured parliamentary approval to raise 250 billion cedis through domestic borrowing in the 2026 fiscal year, with funds earmarked for budget support, refinancing maturing debt and critical infrastructure projects. Critics have questioned whether the heavy domestic borrowing will crowd out private sector credit and push up interest rates.

Omane Acheampong has been a vocal NPP supporter and critic of NDC governments. In December 2025, he criticized the government’s handling of the cocoa crisis, stating that what Mahama is doing is not good at all following the announcement of farmgate price reductions.

The musician’s latest comments reflect broader public discourse about government performance metrics and delivery on campaign promises. The NDC campaigned on themes of economic reset, job creation, anti corruption and restoration of democratic norms following the NPP’s eight year tenure.

Political analysts have noted that governments typically face heightened scrutiny during their early years as citizens compare campaign promises against actual delivery. The Mahama administration has emphasized that many economic challenges inherited from the previous government require time to address comprehensively.

The government’s first budget presented in November 2025 projected economic growth of 5.3 percent for 2026, with inflation targeted at 13 percent by year end. The budget also outlined plans for significant infrastructure investments in roads, energy, water and digital connectivity.

Opposition voices including Omane Acheampong have questioned whether visible improvements in living standards will materialize within reasonable timeframes. Supporters counter that macroeconomic stabilization represents necessary groundwork for broader economic transformation and poverty reduction.

The debate reflects ongoing tensions between technical economic indicators showing improvement and citizens’ lived experiences of hardship. Government officials have acknowledged the gap and pledged accelerated implementation of programs directly impacting household welfare.

Banking Expert Warns of Ponzi Like Models Threatening Ghana’s Microfinance Sector

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Banking Expert Warns of Ponzi Like Models Threatening Ghana’s Microfinance Sector

Banking and financial consultant Dr Richmond Atuahene has uncovered that many Specialized Deposit-Taking Institutions (SDIs) in Ghana are operating on unsustainable business models that resemble Ponzi schemes, putting the sector’s sustainability and viability at risk beyond the Bank of Ghana’s (BoG) new minimum capital requirements.

The research document, copied to The High Street Journal, enumerates unsustainable business models identified by the banking expert across microfinance firms, savings and loans companies, and rural banks that are supposed to champion financial inclusion for the unserved by providing small loans to market women and small businesses not captured by large commercial banks.

Dr Atuahene revealed that many SDIs have fallen into a dangerous trap called visibility as viability, pursuing aggressive branch expansions and opening numerous offices they cannot afford to run. This has significantly increased overhead costs including rent, salaries and utilities, which are often funded by indiscriminately mobilizing deposits at high interest rates rather than through actual profit from lending.

The banking analyst explained that when an institution uses new deposits just to pay off old ones or to keep the lights on, it is no longer a bank but a ticking time bomb. He warned that the situation of many SDIs, though not all, requires BoG attention beyond new capital requirements.

One of the most threatening business practices identified is the pocket bank mentality, where a single individual or family holds absolute control and treats depositors’ hard earned money as a personal automated teller machine (ATM) to fund other businesses on non commercial terms. This insider lending is a leading cause of failure, with undocumented and uncollateralized loans to connected parties draining capital meant to protect the public.

Dr Atuahene revealed that in one shocking instance, a single Savings and Loans company reportedly lent 146 million cedis to just six companies despite having a total capital requirement of only 15 million cedis. This represents a massive breach of the legal 25 percent single borrower limit established to protect financial institutions from concentration risk.

To sustain high operational costs, some SDIs charge oppressive interest rates as high as 10 percent to 15 percent per month, which the banking expert described as usurious. While these rates promise high returns for institutions, they are a death sentence for borrowers as small traders cannot sustain such repayment schedules, leading to massive defaults.

This has pushed the sector’s Non Performing Loans (NPLs) to a staggering 20.8 percent by late 2023, practically meaning that one out of every five loans issued by SDIs is not being paid back. The NPL ratio far exceeds the 5 percent threshold generally considered healthy for financial institutions and signals significant asset quality deterioration.

Dr Atuahene further identified that some institutions, particularly those that were unregulated or fun clubs, promise unsustainable returns hovering around 30 percent to 55 percent over two months to attract deposits. They then use new deposits to pay existing depositors, which he described as a risky practice characteristic of pyramid schemes.

He identified situations of excessive leverage and short term funding, noting that some firms are highly leveraged and rely on short term deposits to fund long term loans. This creates a liquidity mismatch as they cannot meet immediate withdrawal demands, leading to bank runs when depositors lose confidence.

For the financial and banking consultant, these Ponzi like models and other unsustainable practices do not just hurt individual firms but threaten the entire financial system. He outlined three primary threats including erosion of trust, liquidity crisis and mission drift from poverty reduction to high yield, high risk big ticket transactions.

Dr Atuahene stated that when an SDI collapses because it was built on creative accounting and high risk gambles, it destroys public confidence in all financial institutions. He warned that because these firms rely on short term deposits to fund long term, risky loans, they face liquidity mismatches that can trigger bank runs spreading like wildfire through the sector.

The banking expert noted that by shifting from poverty reduction to high yield, high risk big ticket transactions, these SDIs are failing their original mandate to support the informal economy. He emphasized that the institutions were established specifically to serve market women, small traders and micro enterprises excluded from conventional banking.

Dr Atuahene argued that simply demanding 100 million cedis in new capital is not enough if these toxic models remain. To save the sector, the Bank of Ghana must enforce its own rules including the 25 percent single borrower limit and ensure that directors are fit and proper individuals who respect the public trust.

The consultant emphasized that without a shift back to genuine small scale lending and ethical governance, more capital may only mean a bigger collapse down the road. He called for comprehensive reforms addressing governance failures, lending practices and business model sustainability rather than focusing solely on capital adequacy.

The Bank of Ghana carried out a special exercise in May 2019 to revoke licenses of 347 insolvent and dormant microfinance institutions (MFIs), 39 Micro Credit Companies (MCCs) and 23 Savings and Loans Companies and Finance Houses. The regulator determined that some institutions breached the solvency test provided in section 123 of Act 930, while others breached other sections of the Banks and Specialised Deposit-taking Institutions Act 2016 Act 930 and Act 774.

The cleanup cost approximately 21 billion cedis in government bonds issued to protect depositor funds and stabilize surviving institutions. The exercise exposed widespread corporate governance failures, insider lending, capital inadequacy and regulatory breaches across the SDI sector.

The BoG has regulatory and supervisory responsibility for licensed banks and Specialized Deposit-Taking Institutions including Microfinance Companies, Rural and Community Banks (RCBs), Micro Credit Companies, Financial Non-Governmental Organizations (FNGOs), Savings and Loan Companies and Finance Houses. Credit Unions are regulated under the Co-operative Credit Union Regulations 2015 Legislative Instrument 2225.

Dr Atuahene holds a PhD with specialization in corporate governance and financial performance from University of Bradford in the United Kingdom, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance, and is a Fellow Member of the Institute of Bankers Ghana. He has over 30 years experience in the banking sector, previously serving as Executive Director at First Atlantic Bank after holding senior positions at SG-SSB Bank and National Investment Bank.

The consultant has published extensively on banking risks, regulations, deposit protection schemes and financial sector governance. His research has frequently highlighted weaknesses in Ghana’s financial sector oversight and called for stronger regulatory enforcement to prevent institutional failures.

The World Bank approved a 250 million dollar credit facility in 2024 for a five year Ghana Financial Stability Project, with funds channeled through the Solvency Fund A1 of the Ghana Financial Sector Stability Fund (GFSF) established to provide solvency support to banks and SDIs impacted by the domestic debt exchange program.

African Foreign Ministers Request Ghana’s Fugu Following AU Summit Interest

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African Foreign Ministers Request Ghana’s Fugu Following AU Summit Interest

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa revealed on Thursday that African foreign ministers have clamored for Ghana’s traditional fugu garment following overwhelming interest sparked by his appearance at the 39th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Speaking in an interview with GHOne TV on the sidelines of the summit, Ablakwa disclosed that virtually all foreign ministers he interacted with have requested that he make a presentation on fugu at their next meeting. He stated the demand has been so high that he now wishes he had traveled with truckloads of fugu to Ethiopia.

The minister revealed that Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) foreign ministers have specifically requested fugu tailored in their respective national colours at their upcoming gathering. He stated that ECOWAS foreign ministers told him that at the next ECOWAS meeting, they want fugu in their national colours, describing this as a special assignment they have given him.

Ablakwa announced plans to produce fugu for all African foreign ministers in their national colours, as well as for their presidents. He stated the international spotlight on fugu and kente will create opportunities for young entrepreneurs, particularly weavers, to expand production and tap into new export markets.

Ghana will participate in a major fugu and kente trade exhibition in Zambia next month, the minister disclosed. He revealed that Zambian authorities have allocated the country’s largest trade exhibition centre for the event, citing strong interest from buyers following continued requests from his Zambian counterpart about where to find the fugu.

The traditional smock, also known as Batakari or Fugu, became a sensation at the 39th African Union Summit after Ablakwa and Deputy Education Minister Dr Clement Abass Apaak wore the garment during summit proceedings. The smock, a symbol of Ghanaian cultural heritage, was initially misunderstood by Zambian social media users who described it as a blouse following President John Dramani Mahama’s visit to Zambia.

The pushback from Ghanaians who expressed pride in the traditional outfit in defense of their cultural heritage heightened demand for the smock not only in Ghana but across Africa. Ablakwa wore his fugu on the opening day of the summit, while Dr Apaak appeared the next day, Thursday, February 12, 2026, in his yellow and black woven smock and cap, which was visibly admired by summit attendees and diplomats.

In an interview with Daily Graphic, Ablakwa confirmed the strong interest shown by his colleagues in the Ghanaian smock, adding that presentations of the garment were expected to be made to selected ministers and heads of state. He emphasized that the fugu is in such high demand that young entrepreneurs and fugu weavers should take full advantage of the opportunity.

The minister underscored the need for Ghana, especially Ghanaian foreign missions, to take advantage of the present momentum, which he described as very good internationally, to promote Ghana made products. He stated he has instructed all ambassadors and high commissioners that with the coming national day celebrations on March 6, they should all organize a Fugu and Kente Fair to ride on the international momentum positively for economic diplomacy.

Ablakwa urged Ghanaians at home and abroad to continue promoting Made in Ghana goods as well as exposing Ghanaian fabrics and beautiful cultures to other nationals. He stated he received many compliments from many people, adding it is very refreshing to know they even know Ghana has declared a fugu day and are willing to join in celebrating.

Other nationals who spoke to Daily Graphic showered praises on Ghanaians for standing for their heritage and turning the banter into cultural and economic gain. A Malawian journalist stated the friendly banter between Ghana and Zambia during President Mahama’s visit to Zambia was an eye opener, expressing impression with how Ghana made juice from lime by turning the banter into free publicity and booming markets for smock weavers and traders locally and across borders.

Isaac Konga, a Kenyan, indicated that the banter helped him appreciate the history of the smock, especially hearing that Dr Kwame Nkrumah wore it on the day of Ghana’s independence declaration on March 6, 1957. Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Ahmed Ibrahim also wore the traditional garment during summit proceedings.

The 39th AU Summit officially opened on Friday, February 14, 2026, bringing together African heads of state and government to deliberate on continental issues including water security, the theme for 2026. President Mahama was elected First Vice Chairperson of the African Union during the session as Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye officially assumed the rotating chairmanship.

The summit also featured discussions on Ghana’s draft United Nations resolution on the transatlantic slave trade, which received endorsement at the ministerial level. The resolution, to be tabled by President Mahama on March 25, seeks global recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity.

Ablakwa described ongoing African Union deliberations as constructive, impactful and substantive during his media engagement. He revealed that Ghana’s mandate as champion on reparations has been extended for a decade, positioning the country to lead advocacy efforts over the next ten years within a Decade of Reparations framework from 2026 to 2035.

The minister also announced that Ghana is set to secure additional visa waiver agreements in coming months as part of efforts to elevate the global standing of the Ghanaian passport. He hinted at major announcements beginning in March and continuing through April and May, describing visa waiver deals as a top priority.

The fugu phenomenon demonstrates how cultural diplomacy can generate economic opportunities while promoting national heritage. Industry observers noted that increased international demand for traditional Ghanaian textiles could significantly boost employment for weavers concentrated in northern Ghana where fugu originates.

Ghana declared National Fugu Day to celebrate the traditional garment and promote its cultural significance. The initiative gained momentum following social media exchanges about the attire during President Mahama’s January 2026 visit to Zambia, transforming what began as a misunderstanding into a showcase for Ghanaian cultural pride and craftsmanship.

AGI Chief Urges Faster Bilateral Trade Collaborations Within Africa

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AGI Chief Urges Faster Bilateral Trade Collaborations Within Africa

Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) Seth Twum-Akwaboah has called for a pragmatic approach to implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), urging faster bilateral collaborations within the sub region as Ghanaian manufacturers prepare to expand exports.

Responding to questions during a media interaction after the AGI National Council Retreat, Twum-Akwaboah stated that while the AfCFTA framework is still evolving, Ghanaian manufacturers cannot afford to wait indefinitely before expanding exports. He emphasized that industries are ready with products and do not necessarily have to wait for all formalities before exporting within the sub region.

The AGI chief explained that reaching consensus among 54 African countries on trade modalities takes time, as each country seeks to protect its domestic industries. He noted that it is easier for two presidents to agree and facilitate trade directly than to wait for continent wide modalities to be finalized.

Twum-Akwaboah noted that Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) protocols already provide mechanisms for trade within West Africa, but practical barriers such as excessive documentation and border bottlenecks persist. He urged government to address these operational challenges that continue hindering smooth cross border commerce despite existing regional frameworks.

He cited pharmaceuticals as one area where Ghana has a competitive advantage, stating that Ghana is well positioned to supply pharmaceuticals to most of West Africa except perhaps Nigeria. He emphasized that government must pave the way for easier market access to allow local manufacturers capitalize on regional demand.

Twum-Akwaboah also highlighted opportunities in processed grains including maize, millet, sorghum and soybeans, which could be converted into breakfast cereals for export across the sub region. He argued that Ghana possesses both the raw materials and processing capabilities to serve regional markets in these value added agricultural products.

The AGI emphasized the importance of regional institutional collaboration to address region specific needs and strengthen private sector participation. Twum-Akwaboah urged government to reduce paperwork and streamline export procedures to enable industries formalize cross border trade currently conducted through informal channels.

The AGI chief stated that with over 450 million people in West Africa alone, the sub region represents a huge market. He emphasized that export should not only mean overseas markets, noting that regional trade offers significant opportunities for Ghanaian manufacturers to scale operations and generate foreign exchange.

Twum-Akwaboah reiterated AGI’s commitment to working with government institutions to boost regional trade, expand industrial output and generate foreign exchange to stabilize the Ghana cedi. He called for coordinated efforts between public and private sectors to remove barriers preventing manufacturers from accessing established markets within the sub region.

The AfCFTA entered into force on May 30, 2019, after 24 member states deposited their instruments of ratification following continuous continental engagements spanning since 2012. Trading under the agreement commenced on January 1, 2021, though implementation has proceeded gradually as countries negotiate detailed rules of origin and tariff schedules.

The agreement aims to create a single continental market for goods and services with free movement of business persons and investments, facilitating establishment of a Continental Customs Union. By eliminating barriers to trade in Africa, the objective is to significantly boost intra African trade, particularly trade in value added production across all sectors of the continent’s economy.

AGI has consistently advocated for practical implementation of the AfCFTA rather than waiting for complete policy frameworks. Industry leaders have emphasized that businesses need to begin operating under available protocols while broader continental mechanisms are finalized over coming years.

President John Dramani Mahama announced at the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa on Saturday that Ghana will stop exporting unprocessed minerals by 2030, forcing domestic processing across key commodities. He stated that by 2030, there will not be any raw mineral ores leaving Ghana, emphasizing local value addition.

Mahama also announced that Ghana will stop using foreign financing to purchase cocoa and instead raise domestic bonds in cedis, while unlocking 400,000 tons of cocoa beans for local processing. These policy shifts align with AGI’s long standing advocacy for value addition and export of processed goods rather than raw materials.

The AfCFTA Secretariat led by Secretary General Wamkele Mene has emphasized that successful implementation requires addressing payment challenges, infrastructure bottlenecks and regulatory harmonization. The Pan African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) launched in 2022 aims to facilitate instant cross border transfers and reduce reliance on hard currencies for intra African trade.

AGI previously hailed PAPSS introduction, stating that AfCFTA’s success hinges on how businesses can conveniently pay for goods and services. Twum-Akwaboah noted in 2022 that one of the major problems with trading in Africa is how to pay for goods when transactions are done, with difficulties due to different currencies and rates to international currencies.

The association has also emphasized quality standards as critical for AfCFTA success. Twum-Akwaboah stated in 2024 that although the single continental market allows duty free, quota free access to markets across the continent, quality and standards are key considerations for businesses seeking to enter foreign markets across Africa.

Ghana’s manufacturing sector faces significant challenges including high energy costs, limited access to long term financing, infrastructure deficits and competition from imported goods. AGI has consistently advocated for policies addressing these structural constraints to enable local producers compete effectively under AfCFTA.

The association represents over 1,200 member companies across 22 business sectors including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, plastics, textiles, wood products, paper products, metals and engineering. AGI operates through six regional branches providing business development services, policy advocacy and networking platforms for members.

Aidoo Says NDC Had Authority to Cancel Ayawaso East Primary

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Aidoo Says NDC Had Authority to Cancel Ayawaso East Primary

Member of Parliament for Oforikrom Michael Kwasi Aidoo stated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) had the authority to cancel the Ayawaso East primary and consequently punish Baba Jamal but chose not to exercise that power, speaking on Newsfile on Saturday.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislator said that if the party had set up a commission of inquiry and the commission found people guilty, the party could have cancelled it and appointed someone. He emphasized that the party possessed constitutional mechanisms to take decisive action beyond what it ultimately chose to do.

The Ayawaso East internal election held on Saturday, February 7, which saw Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed declared winner, was marred by widespread allegations of vote buying. Members of the NDC Majority Caucus in Parliament called for annulment, however after investigations, the party endorsed Jamal’s victory.

Aidoo questioned the consistency of political actors, stating that supporters throw support behind one candidate, then turn around and sign that the election should be nullified when their candidate does not win. He suggested that some individuals who participated actively in the primary process later called for its cancellation after their preferred candidate lost.

The Oforikrom MP added that because the Electoral Commission (EC) supervised the process, any cancellation could have led to legal challenges. He acknowledged that the EC’s involvement created additional complications for party leadership considering annulment, though he maintained these obstacles were not insurmountable.

Still, Aidoo insisted the party had tools available if it had chosen to act decisively. He stated that internal party mechanisms existed that would have allowed the NDC to cancel the election and select an alternative candidate through appointment or a fresh primary if leadership had determined such action was necessary.

NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey announced on Tuesday, February 10, that the three member investigative committee recommended ideally that the primary should be annulled. However, the committee acknowledged real obstacles that made it difficult to implement the annulment, citing constitutional and time constraints as primary factors.

Kwetey stated that the party could not delay beyond a certain date without jeopardizing its ability to present a candidate for the by election. He explained that the investigative process, potential legal challenges and the need to conduct a fresh primary would have extended beyond deadlines required for filing nominations with the Electoral Commission.

The General Secretary emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly but reflected practical realities facing the party. He stated the committee’s report acknowledged serious concerns about the conduct of the primary while recognizing constraints that prevented nullification.

The three member committee was led by veteran politician Kofi Totobi Quakyi, former Minister of Information, and submitted its report on Monday, February 10, following investigations into allegations that television sets, boiled eggs, gari, sanitary pads, motorbikes and cash were distributed to delegates during the voting process.

Baba Jamal filed his nomination with the Electoral Commission on Wednesday, February 11, to contest the Ayawaso East by election scheduled for March 3, 2026. The seat became vacant following the death of former MP Naser Toure Mahama on January 4, 2026.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) released Baba Jamal on self recognizance bail on Tuesday, February 10, after charging him with corruption, assault and obstruction of OSP officers. The charges stem from investigations into alleged vote buying incidents during the February 7 primary.

The OSP revealed in a public notice issued on Saturday, February 8, that its officer conducting real time investigations into alleged vote buying and selling in Ayawaso East Constituency was attacked by thugs acting on instructions of Baba Jamal during the primary. The officer was serving an investigative directive on the candidate when the incident occurred.

Baba Jamal has vehemently denied allegations of vote buying, insisting he did not engage in any form of inducement during the primary. His lawyers accompanied him to the OSP headquarters for questioning on Tuesday, February 10.

President John Dramani Mahama recalled Baba Jamal from his position as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria following the allegations. The recall occurred on Sunday, February 8, one day after the primary, signaling presidential concern about the vote buying reports.

The NDC Majority Caucus in Parliament issued a statement on Sunday, February 8, signed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, condemning the alleged acts as contrary to the party’s stated agenda to reset Ghana’s politics and restore integrity to the democratic process. The caucus demanded immediate cancellation of the primary and disqualification of any candidate found to have engaged in vote buying.

Former Ghanaian Ambassador to the Netherlands Dr Tony Aidoo urged the NDC to cancel the Ayawaso East Constituency parliamentary primary and bar those involved from holding public office. Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, February 9, Dr Aidoo stated the controversy reflects deeper erosion of internal party democracy that must be addressed decisively.

The Council of Zongo Chiefs in Ayawaso East Constituency warned NDC leadership against annulling the primaries, stating such a move could trigger tension within the constituency. Vice Chairman of the Council Sarki Tanko Amadu questioned what would happen if the party cancelled the election given that Nima was already united.

The controversy sparked intense debate within the NDC about internal democracy and vote buying practices. Some party members including MPs called for decisive action to demonstrate zero tolerance for electoral malpractice, while others emphasized constitutional processes and electoral timelines that constrained available options.

Kwetey announced that the party plans to expand the investigative committee by adding four more members, making it a seven member body, to conduct a comprehensive review of the entire process leading to internal elections. He stated the expanded committee will develop recommendations to deal with what he described as the inappropriate canker affecting party elections.

The Ayawaso East by election represents a test for both major parties on issues of internal democracy and vote buying. Civil society organizations have called on political parties to strengthen internal mechanisms for detecting and punishing electoral malpractice in primaries and internal elections.

Ghana Establishes Quantum Computing Center to Enter Global Technology Landscape

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Ghana Establishes Quantum Computing Center to Enter Global Technology Landscape

Ghana is taking deliberate steps toward establishing itself in the global quantum computing landscape through initiatives including a Center for Quantum Computing and Simulation and hosting major international quantum science events, positioning the country among early African adopters of the transformative technology.

Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is hosting the African International Conference on Quantum Algorithms for Simulation from Thursday, February 13, through Friday, February 20, gathering leading experts, scientists, researchers and students from across Africa to explore cutting edge quantum algorithms and their applications in simulating complex systems.

The seven day event features an opening ceremony, keynote presentations, roundtable discussions, interactive workshop series with lectures, tutorials and hands on sessions, outreach to senior high schools in Kumasi, and poster sessions designed to delve into various aspects of classical quantum algorithms of complex systems. The conference follows the E-Learning African International School on Quantum Science and Technology (ELAIS-QST 2024) held previously.

Ghana hosted the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) closing ceremony for the 2025 International Year of Quantum Science and Technology on Monday, February 10, and Tuesday, February 11, in Accra, bringing together global leaders from science, policy and education. The two day public celebration featured guests arriving from all corners of the world following a momentous year of historic worldwide events.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu served among keynote speakers and panelists alongside representatives from UNESCO, American Physical Society, Institute of Physics, Imperial College London, Duke University, Portuguese Quantum Institute, African Physical Society and numerous other international organizations. The event included screening of the Quantum 100 video, discussion of UNESCO’s official 2025 International Year of Quantum (IYQ) report, reading of the IYQ 2025 poetry contest winning entry, and a science inspired performance by a Ghanaian youth ensemble.

Programming included panel discussions titled A Century of Quantum Science: Celebrating 100 Years of Discovery, Impact and the Next Frontier for Humanity; Africa and the Future of Quantum Science and Technology: Leadership, Innovation, and the Road Ahead; and Preparing the World for a Quantum Future: Education, Skills and Youth-led Innovation. The event formally launched the Global Quantum Initiative and released UNESCO’s official IYQ 2025 report with both in person and livestream participation available.

The Open Quantum Institute (OQI), a multilateral governance initiative promoting global and inclusive access to quantum computing and development of applications for the benefit of humanity, organized a hackathon in Ghana as part of efforts to broaden access to quantum computers and simulators in underserved geographies. OQI is hosted by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) during its pilot phase running from 2024 through 2026.

The hackathon produced quantum powered solutions including designs for graphene oxide membranes to improve desalination of oceanic water for human use and faster traffic optimization techniques using quantum computing. Projects focused on congestion prediction and real time traffic adaptability demonstrated practical applications of quantum technology for addressing developmental challenges.

Long dominated by major scientific powers, quantum technology is creating openings for nations willing to invest early, with Ghana positioning itself among African countries entering the field. The technology holds promise for revolutionary advances in computing power, cryptography, materials science, drug discovery, artificial intelligence and numerous other applications requiring massive computational capacity beyond classical computing capabilities.

However, significant challenges remain regarding whether Ghana has sufficient local technical capacity to support quantum computing initiatives. Building expertise will require substantial investment in specialized training programs, partnerships between universities and international research institutions, and development of educational infrastructure capable of preparing scientists and engineers in quantum physics, quantum information science and related disciplines.

Access to quantum computing hardware represents another constraint, as the technology requires extremely expensive specialized equipment including dilution refrigerators maintaining near absolute zero temperatures, precision control systems and isolation from environmental interference. Most quantum computing applications currently rely on cloud based access to machines operated by major technology companies and research institutions in developed countries.

The African International Conference at KNUST targets students including undergraduates, graduates from bachelor’s programs, national service personnel, master’s students with related courses and potential thesis topics in the area, and PhD candidates in related fields. Professional participants include faculty members, scientists, industrialists and policy makers from governmental organizations.

Conference focus areas include classical algorithms and computation such as machine learning and tensor network representations, quantum algorithms, quantum machine learning, quantum simulation and quantum computing applications. Organizers emphasized exploration of understanding, development and refinement made in both classical and quantum approaches to complex systems.

KNUST Professor Francis Oduro participated as a panelist at the UNESCO IYQ closing ceremony in Accra, representing Ghana’s academic community in discussions about Africa’s quantum future. Other Ghanaian academics including Ni Narku Quaynor of University of Cape Coast also featured among speakers addressing quantum science education and capacity building.

The International Year of Quantum 2025, which opened at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, elevated public understanding of the major role quantum science and technology will play in society through hundreds of grassroots and official events spanning 2025. Emily Edwards, member of the IYQ Steering Committee and Associate Research Professor at Duke University Pratt School of Engineering, stated the entire 2025 year was filled with impactful events happening all over the world.

Edwards expressed gratitude for everyone who made the celebration a success and stated the committee is thrilled to see enthusiasm continue through 2026 with the closing ceremony in Ghana. She noted that a strong foundation has been laid for the years ahead as quantum science transitions from celebration to sustained development.

IYQ 2025 was an international success due to support from sponsors including Microsoft, SC Quantum, QLLIANSE, Quantinuum, D-Wave, American Physical Society, Chinese Optical Society, German Physical Society, Institute of Physics, Optica, SPIE, American Institute of Physics, IEEE, and numerous other industry associations, educational institutions, philanthropic organizations and companies.

Ghana’s quantum initiatives align with broader African efforts to participate in emerging technologies that could reshape economic development, scientific research and technological capabilities across the continent. South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and other African nations have also announced quantum research programs and partnerships with international institutions.

The practical timeline for Ghana developing significant indigenous quantum computing capabilities remains uncertain given the technology’s complexity and resource requirements. Most experts project that even leading quantum research nations will require years or decades to achieve quantum advantage for commercially relevant applications beyond current experimental demonstrations.

Kokofu Declares Candidacy for NPP General Secretary Position

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Kokofu Declares Candidacy for NPP General Secretary Position

Former Member of Parliament for Bantama Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu has officially declared his intention to contest the New Patriotic Party (NPP) General Secretary position, presenting a blend of political experience, academic credentials and public service as the foundation of his candidacy.

Born on October 5, 1960, Dr Kokofu served in the Sixth Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana representing Bantama Constituency between 2013 and 2017 on the NPP ticket. He previously confirmed his decision to contest the position during an interview on Okay FM on Monday, May 19, 2025, stating that he stands ready in his mind, might and everything to contest to bring the party back to its glory.

The former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Executive Director launched a campaign website outlining his qualifications and vision for strengthening the NPP following the party’s defeat in the December 2024 general elections. The website highlights decades of experience in leadership positions and advanced academic qualifications, describing his combination of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Dr Kokofu holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resource Management from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), acquired in 1971, though this appears to be an error as he was born in 1960. He obtained a Master of Science degree in Agroforestry from KNUST in 2007 and also holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Ghana School of Law. He is an alumnus of Kumasi High School.

The former MP has served on numerous governing boards including the Forestry Commission, Lands Commission, Petroleum Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ghana Maritime Authority, National Development Planning Commission, Public Private Partnership Committee, Public Investment Planning Committee, and Trust Logistics Limited. He also chaired the Liaison Group during his tenure in various government positions.

Dr Kokofu served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC) before his appointment as EPA Executive Director. During his parliamentary term, he served on the Parliamentary Select Committee on Lands and Forestry, accumulating experience in natural resource management and environmental governance.

In September 2025, Dr Kokofu called for a complete overhaul of the NPP’s leadership structure, stating that the party cannot continue under its current structure. Speaking in an interview with 3FM, he said there must be a complete cleanup and expressed confidence in his ability to help rebuild party structures that he described as disintegrated.

The former EPA chief emphasized the need to replace current party executives, stating that the message from grassroots members is clear that the current crop of party executives must be changed. He reflected on the party’s defeat in the Akwatia by election held in August 2025, admitting that the outcome revealed deeper weaknesses in organizational machinery and poorly grounded structures.

Dr Kokofu declined an opportunity to contest as NPP flagbearer when approached, citing the party’s fragile state at the time. Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem in June 2025, he revealed that where the party is right now, it is important to change certain things internally before pursuing higher office.

Pro NPP grassroots groups urged the party’s 2024 flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to support Dr Kokofu for the Ashanti Regional NPP chairmanship in February 2026. Fred Appiah, convener of the Grassroots and Identifiable Groups of the NPP, said the party required a unifying and courageous leader to build on the legacy of current regional chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.

The grassroots coalition described Dr Kokofu as committed, selfless and widely respected across party ranks. Appiah stated that Dr Kokofu’s track record and relationships within the party make him the best option to consolidate support and position the Ashanti Region for victory in the 2028 general election.

Dr Kokofu has served in various party positions from polling station executive to constituency chairperson before entering Parliament. His campaign emphasizes party rebuilding, unity and internal reform as key priorities for restoring the NPP’s electoral fortunes following its historic defeat in December 2024.

The NPP lost both the presidential and parliamentary elections in December 2024, with President John Dramani Mahama defeating Dr Bawumia by over 1.6 million votes. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured 183 parliamentary seats compared to the NPP’s 88, marking the party’s worst electoral performance in the Fourth Republic.

Current NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, popularly known as JFK, has not publicly announced whether he will seek reelection. The party is expected to hold national executive elections later in 2026 as part of its reorganization efforts ahead of the 2028 electoral cycle.

The General Secretary position is considered crucial for party administration, organization and mobilization. The officeholder oversees day to day operations, coordinates regional and constituency structures, manages party finances and serves as the primary liaison between national leadership and grassroots members.

Dr Kokofu identifies as a Christian and is married. He hails from Adiebeba Kumasi, a town in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. His campaign website promises to provide updates on developments and announcements as the party moves toward its internal elections.

The NPP has scheduled a series of stakeholder engagements and consultations to chart a path forward following its electoral defeat. Party leaders have emphasized the need for introspection, renewal and strategic repositioning to rebuild public confidence and reconnect with voters across all regions.

Oforikrom MP Describes NDC Ayawaso East Probe Committee as Ineffective

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Oforikrom MP Describes NDC Ayawaso East Probe Committee as Ineffective

Oforikrom Member of Parliament (MP) Michael Kwasi Aidoo stated that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) investigative committee into the Ayawaso East primary controversy was ineffective from the moment it was formed, speaking on Newsfile on JoyNews on Saturday.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislator said he publicly predicted the outcome, stating that the committee formed by the party was toothless from the beginning. He revealed that he made a post on Facebook when the committee was established and predicted that the outcome was going to allow Baba Jamal to contest, adding that exactly so that is what the committee did.

The Ayawaso East internal election held on Saturday, February 7, which saw Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed emerge victorious, was marred by widespread allegations of vote buying. Some members of the NDC Majority Caucus in Parliament called for the election to be annulled, however after investigations, the party endorsed Jamal’s win.

Aidoo argued that the committee’s work did not reflect the gravity of what the public witnessed, stating that what happened was shameful. He added that the party pushed the matter under the carpet despite clear evidence that should have prompted stronger action.

Speaking on the same program, Aidoo stated there has never been a point in time where clear evidence on camera showed people carrying televisions, boxes of gari, sanitary pads, motorbikes and piles of cash. He suggested that in some cases, the value of items allegedly given could amount to about 50,000 cedis per person.

The Oforikrom MP warned that future elections are going to be affected by the party’s decision, stating that delegates may now say others enjoyed it so they should also feel it. He expressed concern that the precedent set could normalize vote buying in subsequent internal party elections.

NDC General Secretary Fifi Kwetey announced on Tuesday, February 10, that the three member investigative committee recommended ideally that the primary should be annulled. However, the committee acknowledged real obstacles that made it difficult to implement the annulment, citing constitutional and time constraints as primary factors.

Kwetey stated that the party could not delay beyond a certain date without jeopardizing its ability to present a candidate for the by election. He explained that the investigative process, potential legal challenges and the need to conduct a fresh primary would have extended beyond deadlines required for filing nominations with the Electoral Commission (EC).

The General Secretary emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly but reflected practical realities facing the party. He stated the committee’s report acknowledged serious concerns about the conduct of the primary while recognizing constraints that prevented nullification.

Baba Jamal filed his nomination with the Electoral Commission on Wednesday, February 11, to contest the Ayawaso East by election scheduled for later in 2026. The seat became vacant following the death of former MP Naser Toure Mahama.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) released Baba Jamal on self recognizance bail on Tuesday, February 10, after charging him with corruption, assault and obstruction of OSP officers. The charges stem from investigations into alleged vote buying incidents during the February 7 primary.

The OSP revealed in a public notice issued on Saturday, February 8, that its officer conducting real time investigations into alleged vote buying and selling in Ayawaso East Constituency was attacked by thugs acting on instructions of Baba Jamal during the primary. The officer was serving an investigative directive on the candidate when the incident occurred.

Baba Jamal has vehemently denied allegations of vote buying, insisting he did not engage in any form of inducement during the primary. His lawyers accompanied him to the OSP headquarters for questioning on Tuesday, February 10.

The controversy sparked debate within the NDC about internal democracy and vote buying practices. Some party members including MPs called for decisive action to demonstrate zero tolerance for electoral malpractice, while others emphasized constitutional processes and electoral timelines.

The three member investigative committee was constituted following widespread concerns and reports that television sets and cash were allegedly distributed to delegates during the primary, raising questions about the integrity of the process. The committee submitted its report informing the party’s decision to maintain Jamal as candidate.

Aidoo noted on Saturday’s Newsfile program that the NDC raised concerns about similar conduct during the NPP’s flagbearer race but suggested the NPP did not have the conscience to take action as the NDC claimed it would. He stated that massive vote buying rocked the NPP presidential primary but the party failed to address it decisively.

The Ayawaso East by election represents a test for both major parties on issues of internal democracy and vote buying. Civil society organizations have called on political parties to strengthen internal mechanisms for detecting and punishing electoral malpractice in primaries and internal elections.

Ghana’s political landscape has witnessed growing concerns about monetization of internal party elections, with delegates increasingly demanding cash and goods in exchange for votes. Political analysts have warned that unchecked vote buying undermines democratic processes and entrenches patronage politics.

The Electoral Commission has scheduled the Ayawaso East by election but has not yet announced a specific date. The NDC is expected to intensify campaigning ahead of the polls as the party seeks to retain the seat previously held by Mahama.

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